Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the zucchini layers
01 -
4 medium zucchini (approximately 2 pounds), sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch strips
02 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
03 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 -
1 teaspoon dried oregano
05 -
½ teaspoon salt
06 -
¼ teaspoon black pepper
→ For the ricotta filling
07 -
15 oz ricotta cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
08 -
1 large egg, lightly beaten
09 -
¼ cup fresh basil, finely chopped
10 -
¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
11 -
1 teaspoon lemon zest
12 -
2 garlic cloves, minced
13 -
½ teaspoon salt
14 -
¼ teaspoon black pepper
15 -
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ For the layers and topping
16 -
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
17 -
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
18 -
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
19 -
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice zucchini lengthwise into ¼-inch strips. Line 2-3 baking sheets with parchment paper. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer. Mix olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Brush zucchini slices with the mixture. Roast for 15-20 minutes or until tender but pliable. Cool slightly. Reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
02 -
In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, beaten egg, basil, parsley, lemon zest, garlic, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well until smooth and spreadable. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
03 -
Spread ½ cup marinara sauce in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer zucchini slices slightly overlapping. Spread half of the ricotta mixture. Top with ½ cup mozzarella cheese. Add ½ cup marinara sauce. Repeat with another zucchini layer, the remaining ricotta mixture, ½ cup mozzarella, and marinara sauce. Top with zucchini, marinara, and remaining cheeses.
04 -
Cover the dish with foil without touching the cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake 10-15 more minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil.
# Notes:
01 -
Roasting zucchini eliminates excess moisture while enhancing flavor.
02 -
Bring ricotta to room temperature for optimal flavor blending.
03 -
Let dish rest before serving for cleaner slices.