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Zucchini Spinach Vegetarian Lasagna

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A fresh, lighter take on classic lasagna with layers of zucchini, sautéed spinach, ricotta, and tomato sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 34 medium zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
  • 10 oz fresh spinach (or 1 box frozen, thawed and squeezed)
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or Pecorino (optional)
  • 3 cups marinara or crushed tomatoes
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 egg (optional, for binding the ricotta)
  • Salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Fresh basil or dried Italian seasoning

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare zucchini: Slice lengthwise about 1/8–1/4 inch thick. Salt lightly and let sit 10 minutes. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
  3. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft, 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
  4. Add spinach: Add fresh spinach in batches and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and cool slightly.
  5. Mix the ricotta filling: Combine ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, egg (if using), half the Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Fold in the cooked spinach.
  6. Warm the sauce: Add marinara to the skillet, simmer 5 minutes, and season to taste.
  7. Assemble: Spread a thin layer of sauce in the baking dish. Add a layer of zucchini slices, then a layer of the ricotta-spinach mix, then sauce. Repeat to 3 layers and finish with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
  8. Bake: Cover with foil and bake 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  9. Rest: Let the lasagna rest 10–15 minutes before slicing so it holds together.

Notes

Remove excess moisture from zucchini to prevent a soggy bake. Feel free to add additional vegetables or swap cheeses.

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