Easy Zucchini Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese
This zucchini lasagna is a quick and easy way to get your veggie fix. The ricotta cheese adds a creamy richness, while the marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese provide a burst of flavor. The Parmesan cheese adds a touch of umami, and the fresh basil leaves add a bright, herbaceous note. This dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and it's also a great way to use up leftover zucchini.
The zucchini lasagna was born out of a desire to create a healthy and delicious dish that could be made with everyday ingredients. I started with a base of zucchini, a versatile vegetable that is packed with nutrients and low in calories. Then, I added a layer of ricotta cheese for creaminess, marinara sauce for flavor, mozzarella cheese for gooeyness, Parmesan cheese for umami, and fresh basil leaves for brightness. The result is a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Easy Zucchini Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese Easy Zucchini Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese Easy Zucchini Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese Easy Zucchini Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese
Prep time: 15 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
  • 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/4 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
  2. Place the zucchini slices in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
  3. Cook the zucchini for 5-7 minutes, or until it is tender and slightly browned.
  4. Remove the zucchini from the air fryer and let it cool slightly.
  5. Spread a thin layer of ricotta cheese over each zucchini slice.
  6. Top the ricotta cheese with a spoonful of marinara sauce.
  7. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses over the marinara sauce.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Why It Works
  • The zucchini is sliced lengthwise, which creates a larger surface area for the sauce and cheese to adhere to.
  • The zucchini is cooked in the air fryer until it is tender and slightly browned, which gives it a slightly caramelized flavor.
  • The ricotta cheese is spread over the zucchini in a thin layer, which prevents it from becoming watery.
  • The marinara sauce is spooned over the ricotta cheese, which adds flavor and moisture.
  • The mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses are sprinkled over the marinara sauce, which creates a gooey and flavorful topping.
  • The salt and pepper are added to taste, which enhances the flavor of the dish.
  • The fresh basil leaves are added as a garnish, which adds a bright, herbaceous note.