Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls

Dive into the world of Italian cuisine with a delicious and comforting twist. This three-cheese zucchini stuffed lasagna roll recipe takes the classic lasagna roll and packs it with flavors from three different types of cheese and fresh zucchini. It's a surefire hit for family dinners or any gathering!

Photos of Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe

The key to finding the right ingredients for this recipe is knowing where to look at the supermarket. Zucchini might be found in the fresh produce section but don't overlook the canned goods aisle for the marinara sauce. When it comes to the cheeses, fresher is always better, so head to the deli department where you can find fresh ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella. These specific cheeses are crucial for achieving the creamy texture and rich flavor of the dish.

Ingredients for Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls

Lasagna noodles: These flat, wide pasta sheets are perfect for rolling with the cheese and zucchini mix.

Olive oil: To sauté the garlic and zucchini, bringing out their flavors.

Garlic cloves: Adds a depth of flavor to the zucchini.

Zucchini: Adds a healthy, fresh touch to the filling.

Ricotta cheese: A creamy and mild cheese that makes the filling rich.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that adds a salty and nutty taste to the filling.

Egg: Binds the filling ingredients together.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

Pepper: Adds a little spice to the filling.

Marinara sauce: Adds moisture and tangy flavor to the lasagna rolls.

Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully over the top, giving a gooey, stretchy texture.

Fresh basil: Adds a fresh and fragrant finishing touch.

One reader, Harmonie Ordonez says:

These three-cheese zucchini stuffed lasagna rolls are a game-changer! The combination of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella creates a rich and creamy filling. The zucchini adds a delightful crunch, and the marinara sauce ties everything together perfectly. This recipe is a definite winner!

Harmonie Ordonez

Essential Techniques for Making Stuffed Lasagna Rolls

How to sauté zucchini: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and add olive oil. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute, then add sliced zucchini, salt, and pepper to taste. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the zucchini is soft.

How to assemble lasagna rolls: Lay out the lasagna noodles on a clean work surface and ensure they are dry. Spread ⅓ cup of the zucchini and ricotta mixture evenly over each noodle. Carefully roll the noodles and place them seam side down onto the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining noodles.

How to bake lasagna rolls: After assembling the lasagna rolls and topping them with sauce and mozzarella cheese, cover the baking dish with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 40 minutes, or until the inside is heated through and the cheese is melted.

How to garnish with fresh basil: Once the lasagna rolls are baked, top them with fresh basil leaves before serving for a burst of fresh flavor and aroma.

How To Make Three Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls

These meat-free three-cheese lasagna rolls are filled with zucchini, ricotta, and Parmesan, and topped with flavorful marinara and gooey mozzarella cheese.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 45 minutes

Total: 1 hour

Serves:

Ingredients

8lasagna noodles,cooked, use brown rice noodles for gluten-free
1tspolive oil
3garlic cloves,crushed
2medium zucchini,grated and squeezed dry
1cuppart skim ricotta cheese,plus 2 tbsp
½cupparmesan cheese,grated
1large egg,beaten
½tspkosher salt
Pepper,freshly cracked
1¾cupsmarinara sauce
½cuppart skim mozzarella cheese,shredded
fresh basil,for garnish, optional

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Ladle about 1 cup of sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a medium nonstick skillet, sauté garlic and olive oil over medium heat for about 1 minute; add zucchini, salt and pepper to taste and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, until soft.
In a medium bowl, combine the zucchini, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and peppel.
Lay out the lasagna noodles on a clean work surface. Make sure noodles are dry.
Take ⅓ cup of ricotta mixture and spread evenly over the noodle. Roll carefully and place seam side down onto the prepared baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles.
Ladle the remaining sauce over the lasagna rolls and top each one with 1 tablespoon of mozzarella cheese.
Put foil over baking dish and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the inside is heated through and the cheese is melted. Top with fresh basil if desired and eat hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 257.98kcal
Fat: 12.87g
Saturated Fat: 7.09g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 3.86g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.92g
Carbohydrates: 20.84g
Fiber: 2.23g
Sugar: 5.21g
Protein: 14.83g
Cholesterol: 60.99mg
Sodium: 525.34mg
Calcium: 302.61mg
Potassium: 423.51mg
Iron: 1.26mg
Vitamin A: 122.55µg
Vitamin C: 10.28mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Lasagna Rolls

When spreading the ricotta mixture on the lasagna noodles, ensure you leave a small border around the edges. This prevents the mixture from spilling out when you roll the noodles. Also, to achieve evenly cooked lasagna rolls, try to roll each noodle with the same tightness. Too loose, and the filling may spill out; too tight, and the inside may not cook properly.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls

Prep ahead: Prepare the lasagna rolls in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you're ready to bake. This will save you time on busy weeknights.

Use pre-made sauce: Opt for store-bought marinara sauce to cut down on prep time. Look for high-quality, flavorful options to enhance the dish.

Batch cooking: Consider making a double batch of the lasagna rolls and freeze the extra for a quick and convenient meal in the future.

Prep workstation: Organize your ingredients and cooking tools before you start to streamline the cooking process.

Efficient assembly: Set up an assembly line for filling and rolling the lasagna noodles to speed up the process.

Multi-task: While the lasagna rolls are baking, use that time to tidy up the kitchen or prepare a simple side salad to accompany the meal.

Substitute Ingredients For Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe

lasagna noodles - Substitute with zucchini slices: Zucchini slices can be used as a low-carb alternative to lasagna noodles, providing a lighter and healthier option.
part skim ricotta cheese - Substitute with low-fat cottage cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese can be used as a lower calorie and higher protein alternative to ricotta cheese.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast can be used as a vegan-friendly alternative to parmesan cheese, providing a cheesy flavor without dairy.
marinara sauce - Substitute with homemade tomato sauce: Homemade tomato sauce can be used as a fresher and lower sodium alternative to store-bought marinara sauce.
part skim mozzarella cheese - Substitute with part skim cheddar cheese: Part skim cheddar cheese can be used as an alternative to mozzarella, providing a different flavor profile while still melting well.

How to Beautifully Present Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls

Elevate the plating: Arrange the zucchini stuffed lasagna rolls in a circular pattern on the plate, ensuring they are neatly aligned and visually appealing.
Garnish with fresh basil: Sprinkle freshly chopped basil over the lasagna rolls to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor.
Drizzle with olive oil: Carefully drizzle a small amount of high-quality olive oil around the edge of the plate for a touch of richness and elegance.
Add a parmesan crisp: Place a delicate parmesan crisp on top of the lasagna rolls for a crunchy texture and an extra layer of savory flavor.
Serve with a balsamic reduction: Create a beautiful design on the plate using a balsamic reduction to add a touch of sweetness and acidity to complement the flavors of the dish.
Use microgreens for a finishing touch: Sprinkle a few vibrant microgreens over the lasagna rolls to add a fresh, delicate element to the presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Lasagna Rolls

Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for chopping, pureeing, and mixing ingredients. It's great for quickly preparing the zucchini and cheese filling for the lasagna rolls.
Skillet: A skillet is a must-have for sautéing the garlic and zucchini. It provides an even cooking surface and allows for easy stirring and flipping of ingredients.
Baking dish: A baking dish is essential for assembling and baking the lasagna rolls. It provides a contained space for the rolls to cook and ensures they maintain their shape.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is necessary for combining the ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, egg, and zucchini to create the flavorful filling for the lasagna rolls.
Foil: Aluminum foil is used to cover the baking dish while the lasagna rolls are baking. This helps to trap heat and moisture, ensuring the rolls cook evenly.
Spatula: A spatula is handy for spreading the ricotta mixture onto the lasagna noodles and for transferring the rolls to the baking dish.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurately measuring ingredients is crucial in cooking, and using measuring cups and spoons ensures the right balance of flavors and textures in the dish.

Storing and Freezing Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls

Let the lasagna rolls cool completely before storing or freezing.
For storing in the refrigerator, place the cooled lasagna rolls in an airtight container or wrap them tightly with plastic wrap. They will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
To freeze the lasagna rolls, follow these steps:
1. Place the cooled rolls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they aren't touching each other.
2. Put the baking sheet in the freezer for about 2 hours, or until the rolls are frozen solid.
3. Once frozen, transfer the rolls to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible from the bag to prevent freezer burn.
4. Label the container or bag with the date and contents.
5. Frozen lasagna rolls will keep for up to 2-3 months.
To reheat refrigerated lasagna rolls, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the rolls in an oven-safe dish. Cover the dish with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.
For frozen lasagna rolls, you can either thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or bake them directly from frozen. If baking from frozen, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C), place the rolls in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the rolls are heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

How To Reheat Lasagna Roll Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover lasagna rolls in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the cheese to melt and bubble.
Alternatively, you can reheat the lasagna rolls in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the noodles to become rubbery.
For a crispy top, you can also reheat the lasagna rolls under the broiler. Place them on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning.
If you have leftover marinara sauce, you can spoon some over the top of the lasagna rolls before reheating to keep them moist and flavorful.
To add some extra flavor and texture, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese or chopped fresh basil over the top of the reheated lasagna rolls.
If you have a lot of leftover lasagna rolls, you can freeze them for later. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow one of the above methods.

Interesting Fact About Lasagna Rolls

The three-cheese zucchini stuffed lasagna rolls recipe is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional lasagna. It's a great way to incorporate zucchini into your diet and enjoy a flavorful, cheesy dish. Zucchini is a versatile vegetable that is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a great addition to any meal. This recipe is also a great way to get your daily serving of vegetables while enjoying a comforting and satisfying meal. So, next time you're craving lasagna, give this three-cheese zucchini stuffed lasagna rolls recipe a try for a tasty and nutritious twist!

Is Making Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls at Home Cost-Effective?

This three-cheese zucchini stuffed lasagna rolls recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The use of zucchini and ricotta cheese makes it budget-friendly, while the addition of parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese adds a touch of indulgence. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the balance of cost and flavor.

Is This Lasagna Roll Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This three-cheese zucchini stuffed lasagna rolls recipe is a healthier twist on traditional lasagna. By incorporating zucchini and part-skim cheeses, the dish offers a good balance of vegetables and protein while reducing the overall fat content. The use of whole-grain lasagna noodles would further enhance the nutritional value by providing additional fiber.

However, the recipe still contains a significant amount of cheese, which can contribute to high levels of saturated fat and sodium. The marinara sauce may also contain added sugars and sodium, depending on the brand or recipe used.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Use whole-grain lasagna noodles to increase the fiber content
Reduce the amount of cheese used, or opt for low-fat versions of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella
Include additional vegetables, such as spinach or mushrooms, to boost the nutrient density
Prepare a homemade marinara sauce using fresh tomatoes, herbs, and minimal added salt and sugar
Serve the lasagna rolls with a side salad to increase the overall vegetable intake of the meal

By making these adjustments, you can create a more nutrient-dense and well-rounded meal that still satisfies your craving for a comforting pasta dish. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying these lasagna rolls as part of a balanced diet can be a delicious and healthy choice.

Editor's Opinion on This Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Roll Recipe

The three-cheese zucchini stuffed lasagna rolls recipe is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna. The combination of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses with sautéed zucchini creates a rich and flavorful filling. The use of lasagna noodles rolled into individual portions makes for an elegant presentation. The dish is well-balanced and offers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors. The addition of fresh basil adds a pop of freshness to the finished dish. Overall, this recipe is a delicious and inventive take on classic lasagna that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a garlic parmesan crust.

Balsamic Glazed Grilled Vegetables: A colorful medley of grilled vegetables drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.

Honey Sriracha Chicken Skewers: Juicy chicken skewers marinated in a sweet and spicy honey sriracha sauce, grilled to perfection.

Mango Avocado Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette: A refreshing salad featuring ripe mango and creamy avocado, tossed in a zesty citrus vinaigrette.

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup: A velvety smooth soup made with ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, perfect for dipping your lasagna rolls.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Zucchini Lasagna Rolls

Creamy Chicken Alfredo: This creamy chicken alfredo recipe is a classic Italian dish that combines tender chicken with a rich and indulgent alfredo sauce. It's the perfect comfort food for a cozy night in.

Mango Avocado Salsa: This refreshing mango avocado salsa is a perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors. It's a great accompaniment to grilled fish or chicken, or simply enjoyed with some tortilla chips as a snack.

Butternut Squash Soup: This butternut squash soup is a velvety and comforting soup that's perfect for the fall and winter months. It's packed with warm spices and a hint of sweetness from the butternut squash, making it a delicious and healthy meal option.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Indulge in this decadent strawberry cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a sweet strawberry topping. It's the perfect dessert for any special occasion or just as a treat for yourself.

Perfect Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Zucchini Lasagna Rolls

Appetizers:

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms: Create a savory and indulgent appetizer by stuffing mushrooms with a flavorful mixture of herbs, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and crispy for a delicious start to any meal.

Crispy Zucchini Fritters: Whip up a batch of crispy zucchini fritters for a light and refreshing appetizer. Serve with a side of tangy dipping sauce for a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant and decadent dessert experience.

Berry Parfait: Layer vibrant and juicy mixed berries with creamy yogurt and crunchy granola for a refreshing and satisfying parfait that is perfect for a light and healthy dessert option.

Why trust this Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, incorporating zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. The combination of ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese creates a rich and creamy filling that's sure to please. The use of garlic and fresh basil adds aromatic depth to the dish, while the inclusion of marinara sauce ensures a classic Italian taste. With a balance of wholesome ingredients and a straightforward cooking method, this recipe promises a satisfying and wholesome dining experience.

Have you tried this Three-Cheese Zucchini Stuffed Lasagna Rolls Recipe? Share your experience and any tweaks you made in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

Can I use different types of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. Try using a combination of fontina, asiago, or even a sharp cheddar for a unique flavor profile.

Can I prepare the lasagna rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the lasagna rolls and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. Just make sure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent them from drying out.

Can I freeze the lasagna rolls for later?

Yes, you can freeze the lasagna rolls for later. After assembling the rolls, place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When ready to eat, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before baking as directed.

Can I substitute the zucchini with another vegetable?

Of course! Feel free to substitute the zucchini with other vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. Just make sure to cook them until they are tender before adding them to the ricotta mixture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles. Just be sure to cook the noodles according to the package instructions before assembling the rolls.