No-Noodle Zucchini Lasagna
No-Noodle Zucchini Lasagna: A Healthy and Delicious Twist on a Classic Dish
Looking for a healthier and lighter version of the classic lasagna? Look no further than this No-Noodle Zucchini Lasagna recipe! Packed with fresh and nutritious ingredients, this dish is perfect for those who want to indulge in a hearty meal without the guilt.
Ingredients (serves 4):
- 4 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
- 1 lb. lean ground beef
- 1 cup low-fat ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can (14 oz.) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Cooking Tips:
- Use a mandoline slicer to get even and thin zucchini slices.
- Drain excess water from the zucchini slices by placing them on a paper towel and sprinkling with salt. Let sit for 10 minutes before patting dry with another paper towel.
- Brown the ground beef before adding it to the lasagna to ensure it's fully cooked.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the garlic, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine and let simmer for 10 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese, and 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer the zucchini slices on top, followed by a layer of the cheese mixture. Repeat until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of meat sauce on top.
6. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the lasagna.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Appearance and Taste:
This No-Noodle Zucchini Lasagna is a beautiful and colorful dish that's sure to impress. The layers of zucchini, meat sauce, and cheese create a visually appealing and appetizing dish. The taste is rich and savory, with the zucchini adding a fresh and light element to the dish. The combination of cheeses and meat sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Type of Dish: Healthy Italian
Main Ingredients: Zucchini, Ground Beef, Cheese
In conclusion, this No-Noodle Zucchini Lasagna recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a healthier and lighter version of the classic lasagna. With its fresh and nutritious ingredients, easy-to-follow instructions, and delicious taste, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
