Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups: A Delicious and Healthy Twist on Classic Lasagna

I’ve included some videos below for those who prefer to watch rather than read, but if you’re looking for a delicious and healthy twist on traditional lasagna, zucchini lasagna roll-ups are a must-try.

These roll-ups are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying the comfort of a warm and hearty meal.

Zucchini lasagna roll-ups are made by using thinly sliced zucchini instead of pasta noodles, making it a low-carb and gluten-free option. The zucchini slices are filled with a mixture of ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and your choice of protein, such as ground beef or sausage. Then, they are rolled up and baked in a tomato sauce until tender and flavorful. The result is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for any occasion.

Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)

To make zucchini lasagna roll-ups, you will need the following ingredients:

• Zucchini: 2-3 medium-sized zucchinis
• Italian sausage: 1 pound (or substitute with ground beef, turkey, or chicken)
• Ricotta cheese: 1 cup (or substitute with cottage cheese or tofu)
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (or substitute with pecorino or asiago cheese)
• Egg: 1 large
• Basil: 1/4 cup, chopped (or substitute with parsley or oregano)
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Tomato sauce: 2 cups (homemade or store-bought)

Possible substitutes for some of the ingredients include:

• Zucchini: yellow squash or eggplant
• Italian sausage: ground beef, turkey, chicken, or vegetarian sausage
• Ricotta cheese: cottage cheese or tofu
• Parmesan cheese: pecorino or asiago cheese

To make the dish vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute the Italian sausage with vegetarian sausage or omit it altogether. You can also use vegan cheese or nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.

Note that the exact measurements and ingredients may vary depending on your personal preference and dietary restrictions. Feel free to adjust the recipe to your liking and experiment with different ingredients and flavors.

Overall, zucchini lasagna roll-ups are a versatile and delicious dish that can be customized to suit your taste and dietary needs. With a few simple substitutions and adjustments, you can create a healthy and flavorful meal that everyone will love.

Instructions

Here are the steps to make delicious zucchini lasagna roll-ups:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchini into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick, and brush them with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Place the zucchini slices on a lined baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes until they are soft and pliable.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, garlic, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese.
5. Spread about 2 teaspoons of the ricotta mixture evenly on each slice of zucchini and roll them up carefully.
6. Pour half of the marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Place the zucchini roll-ups on top of the sauce.
7. Pour the remaining marinara sauce on top of the zucchini rolls and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the zucchini roll-ups are heated through.
9. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your delicious zucchini lasagna roll-ups!

Tips, Tricks & Storing

Here are some helpful tips and tricks to make the most out of your zucchini lasagna roll-ups:

• To make the zucchini slices thin and even, use a mandoline slicer or a vegetable peeler.
• If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought tomato sauce instead of making your own.
• Don’t overcook the zucchini slices, as they will become too soft and won’t hold their shape. Aim for a slightly al dente texture.
• For a vegetarian version, omit the Italian sausage and add some sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the ricotta filling.
• To make the dish ahead of time, assemble the roll-ups but don’t bake them. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, remove the plastic wrap, add the tomato sauce and cheese, and bake as directed.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
• If you want to freeze the roll-ups, make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

With these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make delicious zucchini lasagna roll-ups that are sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy!