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Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara
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Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara is a quick, delicious, and fresh vegetarian recipe featuring tender zucchini slices topped with creamy ricotta cheese and tangy marinara sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this easy-to-make dish is perfect as a light lunch, appetizer, or satisfying low-carb main, bursting with vibrant flavors and perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Fresh zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
  • Ricotta cheese, enough to generously top each zucchini slice
  • Marinara sauce, your favorite brand or homemade
  • Olive oil, for tossing and roasting zucchini slices
  • Minced garlic, to season the zucchini
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Herbs and Seasonings

  • Fresh basil leaves or Italian herbs (basil, thyme, oregano, rosemary)
  • Optional: red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for spice

Optional Toppings

  • Grated Parmesan cheese, for broiling finish
  • Additional toppings like sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or olives

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Zucchini: Slice zucchini into uniform rounds about a quarter-inch thick. Toss them lightly with olive oil, salt, and minced garlic to enhance their natural flavor and prepare for roasting.
  2. Roast the Zucchini: Arrange the zucchini slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Roast in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes until tender but still firm.
  3. Add Ricotta and Marinara: Remove the roasted zucchini from the oven. Spoon a generous layer of creamy ricotta over each slice, then add a dollop of marinara sauce on top, spreading gently for even coverage.
  4. Broil to Melt: Place the baking sheet under the oven broiler for 3-5 minutes. Watch carefully until the ricotta melts and the marinara bubbles, creating a warm, gooey topping.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh basil and, if desired, grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Serve immediately while warm and melty.

Notes

  • Slice zucchini evenly using a mandoline or sharp knife for uniform roasting and melting.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure proper roasting rather than steaming.
  • If ricotta is watery, drain it slightly beforehand for a creamier texture.
  • Closely monitor the zucchini melts while broiling to prevent burning.
  • Add fresh herbs right before serving for maximum aroma and flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: Zucchini Ricotta Melts, vegetarian, gluten-free, low-carb, quick recipe, appetizer, easy dinner, healthy cheese melt

Find it online: https://sophiemelody.com/zucchini-ricotta-melts-with-marinara/