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Zucchini Ricotta Marinara Melts Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 117 reviews

Delight in these Zucchini Ricotta Marinara Melts, a comforting baked dish that combines tender zucchini slices layered with creamy ricotta, tangy marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese, all seasoned with dried oregano and garnished with fresh basil for a fragrant finish. Perfect as a light lunch, dinner, or appetizer.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 2 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise

Dairy

  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Other

  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Heat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking your dish.
  2. Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
  3. Assemble First Layer: Arrange half of the zucchini slices in a single even layer at the bottom of the baking dish.
  4. Add Ricotta and Marinara: Evenly spread half of the ricotta cheese over the zucchini slices, then spoon half of the marinara sauce on top, covering the ricotta.
  5. Sprinkle Cheese: Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the marinara layer.
  6. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining zucchini slices, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese to create two layers.
  7. Add Seasoning: Sprinkle the teaspoon of dried oregano evenly over the top mozzarella layer to enhance flavor.
  8. Bake the Dish: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve warm for the best flavor experience.

Notes

  • You can substitute the marinara sauce with your favorite tomato sauce or homemade version for different flavors.
  • For a gluten-free version, ensure the marinara sauce does not contain any gluten additives.
  • Use firm zucchini to achieve the best texture that holds layers well during baking.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven for best results.
  • Feel free to add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Keywords: Zucchini ricotta bake, vegetarian baked zucchini, marinara melts, cheesy zucchini dish, Italian vegetarian recipe

Find it online: https://tastybynova.com/zucchini-ricotta-marinara-melts-recipe/