Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchinis
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup cooked ground beef or Italian sausage (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for brushing

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Zucchini:
   • Slice the zucchinis lengthwise into thin, flat strips (about 1/8 inch thick). You can use a mandoline slicer if you have one.
   • Lightly brush the zucchini slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
   • Place the slices on a baking sheet and bake for about 10-12 minutes, or until they are slightly softened. This helps remove excess moisture.
3. Prepare the Cheese Mixture:
   • In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, minced garlic, oregano, and basil. Mix until well combined.
4. Assemble the Roll-Ups:
   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
   • Take a zucchini slice, spread a small amount of the cheese mixture over it, and if you’re using it, add a bit of cooked ground beef or Italian sausage.
   • Roll up the zucchini slice and place it seam-side down in the baking dish.
   • Repeat with the remaining zucchini slices and cheese mixture.
5. Add Sauce and Cheese:
   • Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the zucchini roll-ups.
   • Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve:
   • Let the roll-ups cool for a few minutes before serving.