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Zucchini Lasagna

Zucchini Lasagna

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Course: Dinner
Kitchen: American

Ingredients
 

  • For the Zucchini "Noodles"
  • 3-4 medium zucchini sliced lengthwise into thin strips (use a mandoline or a sharp knife)
  • 1 teaspoon salt for removing moisture
  • For the Meat Sauce
  • 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 24 oz jar marinara sauce (or homemade)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Cheese Mixture
  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese or cottage cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or basil chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Layers
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Zucchini "Noodles"
  • Slice the Zucchini: Use a mandoline or a sharp knife to slice the zucchini into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick.
  • Remove Moisture: Lay the zucchini slices out on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. Sprinkle both sides with salt and let them sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out moisture. Afterward, gently pat the slices dry with additional paper towels. This step helps prevent a watery lasagna.
  • Prepare the Meat Sauce
  • Cook the Meat: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef (or turkey) and chopped onion. Cook until the meat is browned and the onion is softened, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
  • Add Garlic and Seasonings: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Remove from heat.
  • Prepare the Cheese Mixture
  • Mix the Cheeses: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped parsley or basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well combined.
  • Assemble the Lasagna
  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Layer the Lasagna: In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Add a layer of zucchini slices over the sauce. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture over the zucchini, followed by a layer of shredded mozzarella. Repeat the layers: meat sauce, zucchini, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella, finishing with a final layer of meat sauce and mozzarella on top.
  • Bake: Cover the lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  • Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing to allow it to set. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.