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Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara Recipe

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  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara recipe offers a delicious and healthy vegetarian dish featuring tender zucchini slices layered with creamy ricotta, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfectly baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh basil, it’s a comforting meal ideal for a light lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Zucchini

  • 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices

Cheese and Sauce

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Seasonings and Garnish

  • ¼ tsp dried oregano
  • Fresh basil for garnish
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes (for added spice)

Fat

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat to ensure even cooking of the dish.
  2. Prepare the Zucchini Slices: Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into 1/4-inch thick slices. Brush both sides of each slice with olive oil and season them with salt and pepper to enhance flavor and assist in roasting.
  3. Layer the Ingredients: Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish. Layer half the zucchini slices evenly at the bottom. Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the zucchini layer, then spoon half of the marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella evenly. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients, finishing with a topping of mozzarella cheese.
  4. Season and Bake: Sprinkle dried oregano over the top layer to add herbal aroma. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted and golden bubbly.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the baking dish from the oven. Let it cool for a couple of minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice before serving.

Notes

  • You can substitute part of the marinara sauce with homemade sauce for a fresher flavor.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the marinara sauce does not contain any added gluten ingredients.
  • Adjust salt and pepper according to taste, especially if using a salted ricotta cheese.
  • Add red pepper flakes sparingly to control the heat level.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain texture.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/layered-zucchini-ricotta-melts-with-marinara-recipe/