Description: A delightful and easy-to-make dish featuring layers of tender zucchini, creamy ricotta, flavorful marinara, and melted mozzarella. Perfect as a light lunch, a vegetarian main course, or a satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices 🍃
- 1 cup ricotta cheese 🧀 (whole milk ricotta is recommended for the best flavor and texture)
- 1 cup marinara sauce 🍅 (use your favorite store-bought or homemade recipe)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀 (low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella works well to prevent excess moisture)
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano 🌿
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish 🌱
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a touch of heat
- Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation:
This recipe involves prepping your vegetables, layering, and baking until golden and bubbly. Each step is easy to follow and will yield a delicious result.
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish (approximately 8×8 inches) with olive oil. This will prevent the zucchini from sticking and ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the zucchini. Wash the zucchinis thoroughly. Trim off the ends and slice them lengthwise into approximately 1/4-inch thick slices. If the zucchinis are very large, you may want to halve them lengthwise before slicing to make the slices more manageable.
Step 3: Season the ricotta cheese. In a small bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and half of the dried oregano (about 1/8 teaspoon). Mix well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. You can also add a tablespoon of grated Parmesan cheese to the ricotta mixture for added flavor.
Step 4: Layer the ingredients in the baking dish. Begin by arranging a layer of zucchini slices on the bottom of the prepared baking dish, overlapping them slightly to cover the entire surface. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 5: Spread half of the ricotta cheese mixture evenly over the zucchini layer.
Step 6: Spoon half of the marinara sauce over the ricotta cheese, spreading it gently to cover the entire layer.
Step 7: Sprinkle a quarter of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara sauce.
Step 8: Repeat the layers: Add another layer of zucchini slices, season with salt and pepper, then spread the remaining ricotta cheese, followed by the remaining marinara sauce.
Step 9: Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with the remaining dried oregano. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. You can also add the remaining Parmesan cheese at this stage.
Step 10: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. The zucchini should be tender and easily pierced with a fork.
Step 11: Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to set slightly and makes it easier to cut and serve.
Step 12: Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. The fresh basil adds a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
This Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melt is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple layering techniques. Second, it’s a healthy and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Zucchini is low in calories but packed with nutrients, and the combination of ricotta and mozzarella provides a good source of protein and calcium. Third, it’s incredibly versatile. You can easily customize the recipe to suit your preferences by adding different vegetables, cheeses, or spices. For example, you could add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the layers, or use a different type of cheese, such as provolone or fontina. Finally, the combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. The tender zucchini, creamy ricotta, tangy marinara, and melted mozzarella create a symphony of tastes that will leave you wanting more.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a light lunch with a side salad.
- Pair with grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.
- Cut into squares and serve as an appetizer.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the marinara sauce.
- Serve alongside a fresh arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve with a glass of crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
Tips:
- For best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Don’t overcook the zucchini, as it will become mushy.
- If you don’t have ricotta cheese, you can substitute cottage cheese or mascarpone cheese.
- If you want a richer flavor, use whole milk ricotta cheese.
- To prevent the zucchini from becoming watery, you can salt it lightly and let it sit for 30 minutes before layering it in the baking dish. This will draw out some of the excess moisture. Pat the zucchini dry with paper towels before using.
- Feel free to add other vegetables to the layers, such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or sprinkle some on top of the cheese before baking.
- If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the baking dish with aluminum foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Calories: Approximately 250-300 per serving Protein: Approximately 15-20 grams per serving Sodium: Approximately 400-500 mg per serving
Conclusion
The Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melt with Marinara is a versatile and delicious dish that is perfect for any occasion. Its ease of preparation, combined with its flavorful and healthy ingredients, makes it a winner for both novice and experienced cooks. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a vegetarian main course, or a satisfying side dish, this recipe is sure to please. Experiment with different variations by adding your favorite vegetables, cheeses, and spices to create your own unique version of this classic dish. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
A: Yes, you can substitute cottage cheese, mascarpone cheese, or even a creamy goat cheese for ricotta. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different. Cottage cheese will be a bit less creamy, while mascarpone will be richer and slightly sweeter. Goat cheese will add a tangy flavor.
Q2: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the layers ahead of time and store the baking dish in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply preheat the oven and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if the dish is cold.
Q3: Can I freeze this recipe?
A: While you can freeze this recipe, the texture may change slightly upon thawing. The zucchini and ricotta may become a bit watery. To freeze, allow the baked dish to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q4: What if I don’t have fresh basil for garnish?
A: If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil instead. Sprinkle about 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil on top of the cheese before baking. Alternatively, you can use another fresh herb, such as parsley or oregano, for garnish.
Q5: Can I add meat to this recipe?
A: Yes, you can easily add meat to this recipe. Cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or shredded chicken would all be delicious additions. Simply add a layer of cooked meat between the zucchini and ricotta layers. Be sure to season the meat well with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
