Zucchini Ribbon Lasagna Rolls

Name: Zucchini Ribbon Lasagna Rolls
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin ribbons; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 cups marinara sauce; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love experimenting with fresh vegetables in my cooking, and these Zucchini Ribbon Lasagna Rolls have become a favorite in our home. The layers of cheesy goodness wrapped in thin zucchini ribbons are not only nutritious but also beautifully presented. This dish allows me to indulge in a classic Italian favorite while keeping it light and healthy. Perfect for any occasion, we've enjoyed them at family gatherings and even for a cozy dinner date at home. Let me show you how easy it is to bring this vibrant dish to life!

Created by

Abigail Foster

Last updated on 2026-01-10T01:46:18.138Z

When I first tried making Zucchini Ribbon Lasagna Rolls, I was amazed at how well the zucchini held up in place of traditional pasta. I used a mandoline slicer to create even, thin ribbons that cooked perfectly al dente. The trick is to salt the ribbons and let them sit for a while to draw out excess moisture, which prevents a soggy dish. This technique was a game-changer and made the rolls so much more enjoyable.

Each time I make these rolls, I like to play around with the fillings. Adding fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavors even more. Plus, they are great for meal prepping! I typically make a batch and freeze the leftovers, so I always have a delicious, healthy meal on hand for those busy nights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Layers of rich, melted cheese paired with fresh zucchini ribbons
Perfectly baked with a crispy top and soft, flavorful filling
A visually stunning dish that impresses at any gathering

      

Selecting the Right Zucchini

When choosing zucchinis for your lasagna rolls, look for medium-sized specimens that feel firm to the touch. Overly large zucchinis can be watery and may have large seeds, so steer clear of those. Fresh, vibrant vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also ensure that each bite of your lasagna rolls is colorful and appetizing. Also, consider using a mandoline slicer for even, thin ribbons, as this will help in creating uniform rolls that cook evenly.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with different types of zucchinis. Yellow zucchini or even striped varieties can add a unique twist to your dish, introducing subtle differences in flavor and color. If you find yourself needing a gluten-free and low-carb alternative, zucchini is an excellent choice as it mimics the texture of traditional pasta while significantly decreasing the calorie count.

Perfecting the Cheesy Filling

The filling for your zucchini rolls is where the magic happens. Using ricotta provides a creamy base, but consider adding herbs like oregano or thyme to enhance the flavor. You could also swap half of the ricotta for cottage cheese for a lighter version. Additionally, if you want to make this dish vegan, consider using tofu instead of cheese, blending it with nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste.

The egg in the filling serves an important role in binding the ingredients together. If you're looking for an egg substitute, a flaxseed meal mixed with water can work well as a binder. Just remember that these small adjustments can slightly alter the texture, making the filling either creamier or denser, so experiment to find what you enjoy most.

Serving and Storing Your Lasagna Rolls

These Zucchini Ribbon Lasagna Rolls are best served fresh from the oven, showcasing their bubbly, golden cheese. Garnish with fresh basil for a fragrant touch. If you have leftovers, try reheating them in the oven instead of the microwave, to maintain their crispy cheese texture. Simply cover with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until warmed through.

For meal prep, you can assemble the rolls in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze unbaked rolls in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake directly from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. This versatility makes them perfect for quick family dinners or last-minute entertaining!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Zucchini Ribbon Lasagna Rolls:

For the Lasagna Rolls

4 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin ribbons
1 cup ricotta cheese
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
2 cups marinara sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil, for garnish

Make sure to have a large baking dish ready for assembling these delightful rolls.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Zucchini Ribbon Lasagna Rolls:

Prepare the Zucchini

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Slice the zucchinis into thin ribbons using a mandoline slicer. Lay the ribbons on a clean kitchen towel and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for 10 minutes to draw out excess moisture.

Mix the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, and the egg. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Rolls

Pat the zucchini ribbons dry. Take a zucchini ribbon and place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture on one end. Roll it up tightly and place it seam-side down in a baking dish. Repeat until all ribbons are filled.

Add Sauce and Bake

Spread half of the marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of the baking dish. Place the zucchini rolls in a single layer, and cover them with the remaining marinara sauce. Top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake

Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor.

Pro Tips

For added depth of flavor, consider mixing sautéed spinach or roasted red peppers into the ricotta filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when making zucchini rolls is the excess moisture from the zucchini, which can lead to a soggy dish. To prevent this, be sure to salt and let the ribbons sit for at least 10 minutes to draw out moisture. After that, pat them dry thoroughly before adding your filling. If you still find the dish too watery, try using less marinara sauce or opt for a thicker version.

If your lasagna rolls fall apart during baking, consider making the zucchini ribbons slightly wider to make them easier to roll. Also, rolling them too loosely can lead to this issue, so ensure that you are rolling them tightly but gently. If you’re using a lighter hand with the ricotta mixture, it’ll help maintain the integrity of the rolls as well.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize your Zucchini Ribbon Lasagna Rolls with other vegetables. Spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms can add flavor and nutrition, making the dish even more satisfying. Just make sure any additional vegetables are well-drained to avoid sogginess.

If you're craving different flavors, try different sauces beyond marinara. A pesto sauce could bring a fresh twist, or a white sauce for a creamy variant. Whichever you choose, ensure that the accompanying sauce complements the filling well, and don’t be afraid to mix and match flavors for a unique take on this classic dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other vegetables besides zucchini?

Yes, you can experiment with other vegetables like eggplant or yellow squash, but they may require different cooking times.

→ Can I prepare these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the rolls in advance and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake.

→ What type of marinara sauce should I use?

Use your favorite homemade or store-bought marinara sauce. A quality sauce will enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

→ Are these Rolls gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the marinara sauce is gluten-free, this dish remains gluten-free since it doesn't contain traditional pasta.