Zucchini Cannelloni with Ricotta
Β Description
Zucchini Cannelloni with Ricotta is a light, low-carb twist on classic Italian cannelloni. Instead of pasta tubes, thin slices of zucchini are rolled around a creamy ricotta filling, then baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. Itβs fresh, comforting, and perfect for a healthy yet satisfying meal.
Β Servings
Β Time Required
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 25β30 minutes
- Total time: ~50 minutes
Β Ingredients
For the Cannelloni:
- 2β3 large zucchinis (thinly sliced lengthwise)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- ΒΌ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 1Β½ cups tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
Topping:
- Β½ cup shredded mozzarella
- Extra parmesan (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish
Β Instructions
- Prepare zucchini
Slice zucchini into thin strips using a knife or mandoline. Lightly salt and let sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
- Make filling
In a bowl, mix ricotta, parmesan, egg, garlic, basil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Prepare sauce
Heat olive oil in a pan, sautΓ© garlic, then add tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Assemble cannelloni
Spread a thin layer of ricotta mixture on each zucchini strip and roll it up.
- Arrange in dish
Spread some tomato sauce in a baking dish. Place zucchini rolls seam-side down.
- Add toppings
Pour remaining sauce over rolls and sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan.
- Bake
Bake at 375Β°F (190Β°C) for 25β30 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve
Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
Β Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
(Based on 4 servings)
- Calories: 220β280 kcal
- Protein: 12β15g
- Carbs: 8β10g
- Fat: 15β18g
- Fiber: 2β3g
Β Health Benefits
- Low-carb & gluten-free β great for weight management
- Zucchini β rich in vitamins A & C, supports hydration
- Ricotta cheese β provides calcium and protein
- Tomato sauce β high in antioxidants like lycopene
- Olive oil β heart-healthy fats
Β Tips for Best Results
- Slice zucchini thin and even to roll easily.
- Remove excess moisture to avoid watery dish.
- Donβt overfill rollsβthey may open while baking.
- Use a mandoline for perfect slices.
- Let dish rest 5 minutes before serving.
Β Notes
- You can add spinach to the ricotta filling for extra nutrition.
- Substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
- Works great as a keto-friendly meal.
- Store leftovers in fridge for up to 3 days.
Β Q&A
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Q2: Why is my dish watery?
A: Zucchini wasnβt dried properlyβpat it well before use.
Q3: Can I freeze it?
A: Yes, but texture may soften after reheating.
Q4: Can I add meat?
A: Absolutelyβground beef or chicken works well in the filling.
Q5: What can I serve with it?
A: A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly.