Keto Zucchini Lasagna Bites 🍴🧀🥒
Ingredients:

  • 2 large zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds (about 1/4 inch thick)
  • 1/2 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 cup marinara sauce (sugar-free or keto-friendly)
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Zucchini:

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Slice the zucchinis into thin rounds. Lightly salt the slices and let them sit for about 10 minutes to release excess water. Pat dry with a paper towel to prevent sogginess.

2. Cook the Ground Meat:

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  • Add the ground beef or turkey, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  • Once cooked through, stir in the marinara sauce and simmer for 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Zucchini Lasagna Bites:

  • Layer the bites: On a parchment-lined baking sheet, place the zucchini slices in a single layer.
  • Top each zucchini slice with a small spoonful of the meat sauce, followed by a small dollop of ricotta cheese.
  • Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and a little Parmesan cheese on top.

4. Bake the Lasagna Bites:

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the zucchini is tender.
  • For extra browning, you can broil the bites for 1-2 minutes at the end.

5. Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Let the bites cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving of 4-5 bites):

  • Calories: ~200
  • Fat: ~12g
  • Protein: ~14g
  • Net Carbs: ~4-5g (depending on the marinara sauce and size of zucchini)

Note: Nutritional values can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients used.

Tips:

  1. Zucchini Prep: Salting the zucchini before cooking helps prevent excess moisture, keeping the bites from getting soggy.
  2. Low-Carb Marinara: Ensure the marinara sauce is sugar-free and keto-friendly. Brands like Rao’s or homemade marinara are great options.
  3. Make Ahead: These zucchini lasagna bites can be prepped ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave.
  4. Protein Options: You can swap the ground beef for turkey, chicken, or even Italian sausage for different flavors.

Benefits:

Satiating: The combination of protein from the meat and healthy fats from the cheese keeps you full and satisfied.

Low in Carbs: Zucchini replaces traditional pasta, drastically reducing the carbohydrate content.

High in Nutrients: Zucchini is rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin C and potassium.