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Pesto Zucchini Lasagna

Delicious Pesto Zucchini Lasagna That'll Brighten Your Dinner

This Pesto Zucchini Lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, combining fresh zucchini and pumpkin seed pesto for a healthy, gluten-free meal.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 6 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Zucchini Layers
  • 3 medium Zucchini Can roast zucchini for a sweeter flavor.
  • 4 stalks Scallions Shallots or leeks can be used for a similar flavor.
  • 9 sheets Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles Can swap with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.
For the Creamy Filling
  • 15 oz Whole Milk Ricotta Cottage cheese can be used in a pinch.
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Vegan cheese can be used for a dairy-free version.
For the Nutty Pesto
  • 2 cups Kale Leaves Stems should be removed; can swap with spinach for a milder taste.
  • 1 cup Basil Fresh cilantro can be a creative substitute for different flavor notes.
  • 1/4 cup Toasted Pumpkin Seeds Can replace with walnuts or pine nuts for a classic taste.
  • 1/2 cup Olive Oil Use high-quality extra virgin for best results.
  • 2 tbsp Lemon Juice Lime juice can be used for a different citrus flavor.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic preferred; can use garlic powder in small amounts.
  • 1 tsp Salt Sea salt or kosher salt preferred for seasoning.
  • 2 tbsp Water Add gradually for desired spreadability.

Equipment

  • Blender
  • baking dish
  • Pot
  • Large bowl
  • paper towels

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by slicing the zucchini into 1/4” rounds. Sprinkle the slices with salt and let them sit for about 20 minutes. Rinse under cool water and pat dry.
  2. Fill a pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Prepare an ice bath in a large bowl with cold water. Blanch kale and basil for 60 seconds, then transfer to ice bath.
  3. In a blender, combine the blanched greens, toasted pumpkin seeds, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and water. Blend until mostly smooth, adjusting water as necessary.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix one-third of the pesto with ricotta. Spoon the remaining pesto into the baking dish, layer noodles, ricotta mixture, zucchini, and scallions. Repeat layers.
  5. Spread the last portion of pesto over the top noodle layer, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese. This will add a delicious topping.
  6. Carefully place the assembled lasagna in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes until cheese is bubbling and golden brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to serve warm, enjoying the comforting flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 25gProtein: 15gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 50mgSodium: 500mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This Pesto Zucchini Lasagna celebrates summer flavors and wholesome ingredients, ensuring a nutritious meal.

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