Ingredients:
For the Zucchini Ravioli:
- 4 medium-sized zucchini
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Tomato Sauce:
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Casserole:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
For the Zucchini Ravioli:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare Zucchini:
- Slice the zucchini lengthwise into thin strips, about 1/8 inch thick, using a mandoline or a vegetable peeler.
- Make Filling:
- In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan, egg, minced garlic, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble Ravioli:
- Lay out two strips of zucchini, slightly overlapping. Place a spoonful of the ricotta mixture in the center. Fold the sides of the zucchini over the filling to form a ravioli-like shape. Repeat until all the zucchini and filling are used.
For the Tomato Sauce:
- Prepare Sauce:
- In a small saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Assemble the Casserole:
- Layer in Casserole Dish:
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish.
- Arrange Zucchini Ravioli:
- Place the zucchini ravioli in the dish, arranging them in a single layer.
- Top with Cheese:
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the zucchini ravioli.
- Repeat Layers:
- Repeat the layers until all the zucchini and filling are used, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh chopped basil, and let it cool slightly before serving.