Mediterranean Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara 🍅🧀🥒
This Mediterranean Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara is a fresh and flavorful twist on classic comfort food. Tender zucchini slices are layered with creamy ricotta cheese, rich marinara sauce, Mediterranean herbs, and melted mozzarella for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.
🧾 Ingredients
- 3 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into thin strips
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
- Optional: sliced olives or cherry tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flavor
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Prep zucchini
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice zucchini lengthwise and pat dry.
2. Roast zucchini
Brush zucchini with olive oil and season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 10 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Make ricotta mixture
Mix ricotta cheese with minced garlic and black pepper.
4. Layer ingredients
Spread a small amount of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Add a layer of zucchini, ricotta mixture, marinara sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan.
5. Repeat layers
Continue layering until all ingredients are used.
6. Bake
Bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
7. Garnish and serve
Top with fresh basil, parsley, olives, or cherry tomatoes before serving.
⏱ Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
🍽 Servings
4 servings
❓ Recipe Q&A
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it ahead and bake when ready.
Q: Is this keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs.
Q: Can I use feta instead of ricotta?
Yes, feta adds a stronger Mediterranean flavor.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.