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Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara for Cozy Nights

These Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara are a comforting vegetarian dish filled with flavors of zucchini, ricotta, and marinara sauce.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Cooling Time 10 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Layers
  • 3 medium Zucchini Substitute with eggplant for a different flavor
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can use any neutral oil if preferred
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 ounces Ricotta Cheese Cottage cheese can be a lighter option
  • 2 cups Shredded Mozzarella Cheese Swap for cheddar if you prefer a sharper taste
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese Optional; nutritional yeast is a great dairy-free alternative
For the Marinara Sauce
  • 2 cups Marinara Sauce Use a gluten-free version if needed
For Seasonings
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Basil Feel free to use fresh basil for a vibrant taste
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Italian seasoning makes a fine alternative
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Fresh minced garlic can also be used for a stronger punch
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper
For Garnish
  • a few Fresh Basil Leaves Optional; a lovely touch to finish the dish

Equipment

  • Oven
  • Skillet
  • Baking Dish
  • Mixing Bowl
  • paper towel

Method
 

Preparation Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Slice the zucchini into thin rounds, about ¼ inch thick. Sprinkle salt over the slices and let them sit for 10 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until creamy.
  4. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add zucchini rounds and sauté for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
  5. In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce, then a layer of zucchini slices, followed by dollops of ricotta mixture and mozzarella. Repeat, finishing with marinara and mozzarella.
  6. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 1.5mg

Notes

For best results, slice zucchini thinly and don't skip salting to enhance flavor and prevent a watery dish.

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