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Lasagna has long been a beloved dish, known for its rich layers of pasta, savory meat, and creamy cheese. Traditional recipes often include ingredients like ground beef, béchamel sauce, and a generous helping of mozzarella cheese, creating a hearty meal that many cherish. However, as dietary preferences evolve and health-conscious eating becomes more popular, adaptations of this classic recipe are emerging. One such adaptation is the Zucchini Delight Lasagna—a vibrant, vegetarian alternative that swaps out the conventional pasta layers for slices of fresh zucchini.

Zucchini Lasagna with Fresh Tomato Sauce

Discover the delicious and nutritious Zucchini Delight Lasagna, a fresh twist on the classic favorite. This vegetarian recipe swaps traditional pasta for thinly sliced zucchini, offering a lighter and healthier meal without sacrificing taste. Packed with fresh ingredients like ripe tomatoes, creamy ricotta, and aromatic herbs, each layer creates a flavorsome experience. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at the table while promoting a healthy lifestyle. Try it today for a comforting, wholesome meal!

Ingredients
  

3 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch strips

2 cups ricotta cheese

1 egg

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

4 cups fresh tomatoes, diced

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Zucchini:

    Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Sprinkle the sliced zucchini with salt and lay them on a clean kitchen towel. Let them sit for about 20 minutes to allow excess moisture to drain.

      Make the Fresh Tomato Sauce:

        In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes, oregano, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.

          Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:

            In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, 1/2 cup of Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

              Layer the Lasagna:

                In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the fresh tomato sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of zucchini slices, followed by half of the ricotta mixture. Top with another layer of sauce, followed by a layer of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers once more, finishing with a final layer of zucchini, tomato sauce, and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and remaining Parmesan cheese on top.

                  Bake:

                    Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

                      Serve:

                        Remove from the oven and allow the lasagna to cool for about 10 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious Zucchini Delight Lasagna!

                          Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 30 min | 1 hr | 6 servings