Description
Delightful zucchini noodle lasagna delivers Italian comfort without heavy pasta, blending garden-fresh ingredients into a lighter, healthier masterpiece. Layers of tender zucchini ribbons, rich marinara, and melted cheese create a low-carb sensation you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 medium onion
Cheeses:
- 15 ounces (425 grams) ricotta cheese
- 2 cups (226 grams) mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 grams) parmesan cheese
Base and Sauce Ingredients:
- 4 medium zucchinis
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) tomato sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F, creating an ideal cooking environment for a perfectly layered lasagna.
- Transform zucchini into delicate noodle-like strips using a spiralizer or vegetable peeler, then sprinkle with salt to extract excess moisture.
- After 10 minutes, gently blot zucchini noodles with paper towels to ensure a non-watery final dish.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef, breaking it into crumbly pieces while incorporating diced onions and minced garlic.
- Pour tomato sauce into the meat mixture, allowing flavors to harmonize during a 10-minute simmer.
- Prepare the baking dish by spreading a thin sauce layer as the foundation for the lasagna.
- Create alternating layers: zucchini noodles, ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan, repeating the process until ingredients are used.
- Conclude the layering with a final sauce and mozzarella topping for maximum flavor and visual appeal.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, then uncover and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes to achieve a golden cheese crust.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for 5 minutes after baking, enabling it to set and become easier to slice.
- Garnish with fresh basil or extra parmesan, then serve warm for a delightful dining experience.
Notes
- Drain zucchini thoroughly to prevent a soggy lasagna, using paper towels or a clean kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.
- Swap ground beef with plant-based alternatives like lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version that maintains rich, hearty flavors.
- Use low-fat cheese options or dairy-free alternatives to create a lighter, health-conscious meal without compromising on taste.
- Try additional herbs like oregano or thyme in the meat sauce to elevate the overall flavor profile and add depth to the dish.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 22 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg