WW-Friendly Layered Zucchini Ricotta Melts with Marinara

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: ~230 per serving
Estimated WW Points (per serving):

• Blue / Green / Purple Plan: 4–6 points (see detailed breakdown below)

🛒 WW-Friendly Ingredients:

• 2 medium zucchinis, sliced lengthwise into ¼-inch thick strips – 0 points
• 1 tsp olive oil – 1 point
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – 0 points
• 1 cup part-skim ricotta cheese – ~6 points
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese – ~3 points
• ½ tsp garlic powder – 0 points
• ½ tsp dried basil – 0 points
• 1½ cups marinara sauce (no added sugar, light) – ~2 points
• ¾ cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese – ~6 points
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish – 0 points
• Non-stick cooking spray for greasing – 0 points

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

🔥 Step 1: Roast the Zucchini

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease or spray a baking sheet.
2. Arrange zucchini slices in a single layer.
3. Brush or spray lightly with 1 tsp olive oil, season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until just tender. Let cool slightly.

🧀 Step 2: Make Ricotta Mixture

1. In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, garlic powder, and dried basil.
2. Stir until well combined and creamy.

🍅 Step 3: Assemble the Layers

1. Lightly grease a baking dish (8×8 works well).
2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
3. Add a layer of zucchini, followed by ricotta mixture, then marinara, and a sprinkle of mozzarella.
4. Repeat layers until ingredients are used, ending with mozzarella on top.

🧁 Step 4: Bake

1. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
2. Let cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired.

📊 WW Points Breakdown (Entire Recipe)

✅ Tips to Lower Points Even Further:

• Use fat-free ricotta (if available) or blend low-fat cottage cheese as a sub.
• Opt for fat-free shredded mozzarella or reduce to ½ cup.
• Choose zero-point marinara (homemade or brands like Rao’s Light or Good & Gather No Sugar Added).