Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Here’s a delicious recipe for Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara. This dish is a great combination of fresh zucchini, creamy ricotta, and savory marinara sauce. It’s perfect as a light main dish or a side!

Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Ingredients:

• For the Zucchini Layers:

  • 4 medium zucchinis (about 1½ pounds)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• For the Ricotta Filling:

  • 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese (whole milk or part-skim)

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley, finely chopped (optional)

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1/4 teaspoon salt

  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

• For the Marinara Sauce:

  • 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

• For the Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

   • Slice the zucchinis into 1/4-inch thick rounds. You can also slice them lengthwise into ribbons if you prefer a more rustic look.

   • Lay the zucchini slices on a paper towel-lined tray. Sprinkle lightly with salt and let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat them dry afterward.

2. Cook the Zucchini:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

   • Once hot, add the zucchini slices in a single layer (you may need to do this in batches). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until the zucchini is just tender and lightly browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. Make the Ricotta Filling:

   • In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.

4. Assemble the Melts:

   • In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.

   • Layer the cooked zucchini slices in a single layer on top of the marinara. You can overlap slightly if needed.

   • Spread a spoonful of the ricotta mixture over each zucchini slice, smoothing it out.

   • Continue layering zucchini, ricotta, and marinara sauce until all the ingredients are used up.

5. Top with Cheese:

   • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top layer of zucchini.

   • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

6. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dish is heated through.

7. Serve:

   • Remove from the oven and let it cool for a couple of minutes.

   • Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving, if desired.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve the layered zucchini ricotta melts with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Enjoy! This is a great vegetarian option that’s both filling and comforting!