Description
This Cheesy Spinach-Zucchini Lasagna is a delicious, lighter twist on traditional lasagna! Made with layers of tender zucchini, spinach, ricotta, and melty cheese, this dish is packed with flavor while being a healthier, low-carb alternative. Perfect for a cozy family dinner!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/8-inch strips
- 1 tbsp salt (for removing excess moisture)
- 9 lasagna noodles (or use more zucchini strips for a low-carb version)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Ricotta Mixture:
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Cheese Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Zucchini
- Lay zucchini slices on a paper towel and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 15 minutes to draw out moisture.
- Pat dry with another paper towel to prevent a watery lasagna.
Step 2: Cook the Spinach
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted (2 minutes). Remove from heat.
Step 3: Make the Ricotta Mixture
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked spinach.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread ½ cup marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer with 3 lasagna noodles or zucchini slices.
- Spread ⅓ of the ricotta mixture and ½ cup marinara sauce over the noodles.
- Sprinkle ⅓ of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat two more times, finishing with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake for another 15 minutes, until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let sit for 10 minutes before slicing.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm!
Notes
- Make It Low-Carb: Skip the lasagna noodles and only use zucchini slices.
- More Protein: Add cooked ground turkey or chicken to the marinara sauce.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use cashew ricotta and dairy-free mozzarella.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.