One Pan Lasagna with Ribbon Zucchini Noodles
Try this One Pan Lasagna with Ribbon Zucchini Noodles recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this One Pan Lasagna with Ribbon Zucchini Noodles recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
- salt and ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup mushrooms sliced
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1/2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
- 2-3 cloves of garlic minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (i recommend san marzano or fire-ro
- 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- 2 1/2 tablespoons of fresh chopped basil divided
- 1 cup part-skim mozzarella cheese shredded
- 2/3 up fat-free cottage cheese
- 1/3 up low-fat ricotta cheese for garnish optional
- sprinkle of parmesan cheese for garnish optional
- optional add-ins
- 1 1/2 - 2 cups spinach chopped
- 2 medium zucchini peeled and chopped
- 1/2 - 1 lb extra-lean ground turkey (omit if you want to keep
- 5-6 medium zucchinis peeled
- 1/4 cup - 1/2 cup water reserved as needed
- Carbohydrate 5.65527687265019 g
- Cholesterol 36.288 mg
- Fat 9.76586437507062 g
- Fiber 1.39153125739397 g
- Protein 14.8189899994855 g
- Saturated Fat 5.85241974999864 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -5 serving (90g)
- Sodium 477.540312489739 mg
- Sugar 4.26374561525622 g
- Trans Fat 0.557058062479912 g
- Calories 167 calories
Step-by-step
- Prepare the zucchini noodles: Spiralize zucchini using the ribbon blade or a vegetable peeler; set aside. Pat dry with a paper towel. (This step can be done up to 3 days in advance. Simply store zoodles in an airtight container with a paper towel to help absorb excess moisture.)
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, add in the ground meat and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes, making sure to crumble and break down into small pieces as it cooks; drain excess fat.
- Add the garlic and saute for 30 seconds to a minute or until fragrant. Add mushrooms and zucchini if using and saute for 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add tomato paste, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, red pepper flakes and 1 tablespoon of basil. Bring to a boil and reduce heat allowing to simmer. Stir constantly until sauce begins to thicken (about 5 minutes).
- Add the ribboned zucchini noodles and cover with lid.
- Remove cover and using tongs, swirl the zucchini around after 3 minutes to avoid sticking to the pan.
- Cook until zucchini is tender (around 5-7 minutes). If adding spinach, stir in after 6 minutes and cover.
- Remove from heat and stir in mozzarella and cottage cheese. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
- Top with dollops of ricotta cheese. Cover with pan and allow to sit for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese has melted.
- Remove from stove and sprinkle with chopped parsley, basil and parmesan cheese if desired.
One Pan Lasagna with Ribbon Zucchini Noodles: A Weeknight Wonder
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like an impossible task. Between work deadlines, school pick-ups, and all the other demands on my time, elaborate recipes often end up on the back burner. That's why I've fallen in love with this One Pan Lasagna with Ribbon Zucchini Noodles. It's a simple, satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, and it doesn’t require a mountain of dishes. No more hours spent slaving over a hot stove – this recipe is my secret weapon for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The zucchini noodles, or “zoodles,” are a fantastic low-carb alternative to traditional pasta, providing a lighter, healthier twist on a classic comfort food. I love the way they absorb the rich tomato sauce, resulting in a dish that's both flavorful and satisfying. The ground turkey adds lean protein, while the blend of cheeses provides creamy indulgence without the guilt. The whole thing is cooked in one pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing my precious time.
What sets this recipe apart is its flexibility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables. Add some bell peppers for extra sweetness, or throw in some spinach for a boost of nutrients. If you’re not a fan of ground turkey, ground chicken or even Italian sausage work wonderfully. I often adjust the recipe based on what I have on hand in my fridge, making it incredibly adaptable to my ever-changing schedule. Sometimes I'll add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick, other times I'll keep it mild for the kids.
This recipe is more than just a quick meal; it’s a testament to the power of smart cooking. It's proof that healthy and delicious doesn't have to mean complicated. With minimal ingredients and even less effort, you can create a restaurant-quality meal that your family will devour. It's a perfect example of how even busy people can prioritize healthy eating without sacrificing taste or precious time. The best part? The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making it perfect for lunch prep too!
Beyond the Recipe: This one-pan lasagna isn't just about the meal; it's about making the most of my time. In a world that often feels overwhelming, having a quick, easy, and nutritious meal in my arsenal is incredibly empowering. It frees up time for other things I enjoy – playing with my kids, catching up with friends, or simply enjoying a quiet evening to myself. It’s about balance, efficiency, and making healthy choices that don’t feel like a burden. So, try this recipe, and discover for yourself the joy of a simple, delicious, and time-saving meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Prep Ahead: Spiralize the zucchini ahead of time and store it in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for some extra heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground turkey and add extra vegetables like eggplant or zucchini.
- Cheese Lovers Delight: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese. Feta, parmesan, or provolone would all be delicious additions.
- Make it a Complete Meal: Serve with a side salad or some crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
This One Pan Lasagna with Ribbon Zucchini Noodles recipe isn't just a recipe; it's a lifestyle choice. It’s a reflection of my commitment to nourishing my family with healthy, delicious food while navigating the busy demands of modern life. It's a recipe that makes me feel good – about the food I'm eating, the time I'm saving, and the energy I have left to enjoy everything else that life has to offer.
So, grab your ingredients, clear your counter, and get ready to experience a weeknight dinner that's both simple and spectacular. You won't regret it!
