Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara
Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender zucchini, creamy ricotta, and rich marinara sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of Italy while impressing your family and friends. Each bite offers a warm and cheesy experience that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 medium zucchinis (about 400g)
- 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese (240g)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (240ml)
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (150g)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (15g)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (30ml)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil.
- Slice zucchinis into thin rounds (¼ inch thick) and sprinkle with salt. Let sit on paper towels to draw out moisture.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta, half of the mozzarella, basil, and a pinch of salt until combined.
- Layer zucchini slices in the prepared baking dish; spread marinara over them followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture.
- Repeat layers until ingredients are used up, finishing with remaining mozzarella on top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: Approximately 200g
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 560mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, sauté zucchini slices before layering. - Feel free to replace ricotta with cottage cheese or goat cheese for variation. - Consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.