Ingredients

2 1/2 cups zucchini , sliced lengthwise 1/4 inch thick ( about 2 medium )
1/2 lb lean ground beef ( I use 1 lb . )
1/4 cup onion , chopped
2 small tomatoes , cut up
1 can tomato paste
1 garlic clove , minced
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 cup water
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1 egg
3/4 cup low fat cottage cheese ( or low fat or fat free ricotta )
1/2 cup mozzarella cheese , shredded ( I use 8 oz . divided )
1 teaspoon flour
Zucchini lasagna is a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional lasagna. By swapping out the noodles for thinly sliced zucchini, you can cut down on the carbs and calories without sacrificing flavor. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to your preferences. Add in some spinach or bell peppers for extra veggies, or swap out the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. The cottage cheese adds a creamy texture without a lot of added fat, and the mozzarella cheese on top gives it that classic lasagna flavor. Serve with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Instructions

1.Preheat your oven to 375 F.
2.Sauté ground beef and onion in large skillet until cooked. Add in minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, and pepper.
3.Add chopped tomatoes and tomato paste into the beef mixture. Stir in 1/4 cup water and 1 teaspoon of flour. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4.Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place sliced zucchini on the baking sheet. Roast for about 5 minutes.
5.Mix together egg and low-fat cottage cheese in a separate bowl. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
6.In an 8x8 inch baking dish, layer the zucchini slices, then some beef mixture followed by the cottage cheese mixture. Repeat layers, ending with the beef mixture on top.
7.Sprinkle remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the beef mixture.
8.Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

PROS

Zucchini lasagna is a healthier, lower-carb alternative to traditional lasagna.
It is packed with vegetables, the beef provides a good source of protein, and the cottage cheese makes it creamy without a lot of added fat.

CONS

Some people may prefer the taste and texture of traditional lasagna.
Additionally, this recipe takes a bit longer to make due to roasting the zucchini slices and layering the ingredients.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Zucchini is packed with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium. It is low in calories and carbohydrates, making it a great choice for a low-carb diet. The beef provides a good source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. Low-fat cottage cheese is a great source of calcium and protein, which are both important for building and maintaining strong bones and muscles.

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