Plant-Based Zucchini Ricotta Rolls

Prepare to fall in love with these incredibly easy and utterly delicious vegan lasagna roll ups! Forget traditional pasta, because tender, low-carb zucchini noodles are expertly filled with a creamy, dairy-free ricotta, nestled in a rich marinara sauce, and baked until perfectly golden. This vegan zucchini rollatini is not only simple to prepare but also promises an exceptionally satisfying and wholesome meal that everyone will adore. It’s the kind of dish that truly delivers on flavor without compromising on health, proving that plant-based eating can be both indulgent and nutritious.

You’re in for a real treat with these zucchini lasagna roll-ups. They are so remarkably flavorful and capture the authentic essence of pasta with cheese – even though they are completely gluten-free and dairy-free. For those seeking an extra touch of gourmet sophistication, a generous sprinkle of dairy-free parmesan cheese on top before serving will elevate the experience even further. These zucchini rollatini offer a delightful balance; they are soft, tender, and incredibly comforting, yet surprisingly light and satisfying. What makes them even better is their wholesome nature, crafted from nutrient-dense ingredients that nourish your body with every bite.

The beauty of this recipe extends beyond its taste and health benefits – it’s also incredibly straightforward to make. While the preparation and rolling might take a little time, it’s a calm, almost meditative process that yields fantastic results. By using thinly sliced zucchini, we create pliable “noodles” that roll up effortlessly and achieve a wonderfully soft, pasta-like texture when baked. You won’t even notice the absence of traditional lasagna noodles; this dish truly stands on its own as a delightful and innovative twist on a classic comfort food.

The magic ingredient that makes these roll-ups so special is the luscious dairy-free ricotta. My homemade cauliflower almond ricotta is a game-changer, offering a rich, creamy, and utterly delicious flavor profile that rivals its dairy counterpart. It’s unbelievably yum and ensures that you won’t miss the dairy one bit! This unique zucchini rollatini recipe is one of my top choices for utilizing the abundant summer zucchini harvest. It offers a refreshing departure from more common preparations like zucchini bread or stuffed zucchini boats, providing a fresh and exciting way to enjoy this versatile vegetable.

Why You Will Love These Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups

There are countless reasons why these vegan lasagna roll ups are destined to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. From their delightful taste to their health benefits and sheer convenience, this dish truly has it all:

• Irresistibly Delicious: Prepare for a truly rich, creamy, and profoundly satisfying culinary experience. The combination of savory marinara and velvety dairy-free ricotta creates a symphony of flavors that will impress even the most discerning palates. This plant-based meal is designed to unite everyone around the dinner table, appealing to both vegans and non-vegans alike with its comforting and authentic taste.
• Remarkably Light & Low Carb: Say goodbye to heavy, guilt-inducing meals. These zucchini roll ups offer a wonderfully light and refreshing option, making them the perfect low-carb choice for any time of year, especially warm summer evenings. They deliver all the comfort of lasagna without the caloric density, leaving you feeling satisfied and energized.
• Ideal for Meal Prep: This recipe is a dream come true for meal planning enthusiasts. Not only does it reheat beautifully, retaining its delicious texture and flavor, but it’s also freezer-friendly, making it an ultimate make-ahead dish. Prepare a large batch, and you’ll have wholesome, ready-to-eat meals throughout the week or for busy occasions.
• Unexpectedly Fun & Flavorful: Who says healthy food has to be boring? These vegan zucchini roll ups are a testament to the fact that nutritious meals can be incredibly exciting and enjoyable. Their unique presentation and vibrant flavors make them a joyful addition to any menu, dispelling any myths about dull plant-based cuisine.
• Packed with Nutrients: Every bite of these roll ups is a powerhouse of goodness. Featuring nutrient-dense ingredients like fresh zucchini, brimming with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, alongside our wholesome cauliflower almond ricotta, this dish truly makes every calorie count. It’s a fantastic way to boost your daily intake of beneficial plant-based nutrients.
• Surprisingly Easy to Make: Despite their decadent taste and impressive appearance, these zucchini ricotta rolls come together with surprising ease. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can transform humble vegetables into a gorgeous, gourmet-quality casserole in no time, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• The Ultimate Healthy Comfort Food: If you’re craving hearty comfort food but want to stick to a healthy lifestyle, look no further. This dish perfectly satisfies that desire for warmth and nourishment, offering a guilt-free indulgence that is both wholesome and deeply comforting. It’s a meal that truly feeds your soul as much as your body.
• Kosher for Passover Friendly: An excellent option for those observing Passover, this recipe can be served as a delightful main course or a flavorful side dish, adding versatility to your holiday menu. Its plant-based nature adheres to dietary guidelines while offering a delicious and festive meal.

Ingredients for Your Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups

Crafting the perfect vegan lasagna roll ups starts with selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a closer look at the stars of this recipe and some handy substitution tips:

• ZUCCHINI: The Star “Noodles”

  Zucchini isn’t just a versatile summer squash; it’s the ingenious foundation of our low-carb lasagna noodles. Beyond its ability to transform into pliable strips, zucchini is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s remarkably low in carbohydrates and calories, offering an excellent, wholesome alternative to traditional wheat-based pasta. Zucchini is rich in Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that supports immune health and collagen production, crucial for glowing skin. It also provides a good source of folate, Vitamin K, and Vitamin A, contributing to overall well-being. Using zucchini not only makes these roll ups healthy but also incredibly satisfying – comfort food that truly benefits your body.

• RICOTTA: The Creamy, Dairy-Free Heart

  Our filling is made with an exceptional dairy-free vegan ricotta recipe, crafted from a delightful blend of cauliflower and almonds. This homemade version is surprisingly easy to whip up and offers a rich, creamy texture and savory flavor that perfectly mimics traditional ricotta. If time is a constraint, a high-quality store-bought vegan ricotta like Kite Hill Ricotta makes an excellent substitute. For an alternative creamy layer, you could also consider making my smooth and flavorful dairy-free béchamel sauce.

• MARINARA: The Tangy Base

  A great marinara sauce is essential for truly authentic lasagna flavor. When purchasing jarred sauce, always opt for brands that come in glass containers and have a short, recognizable ingredient list, free from added sugars or artificial additives. Rao’s Marinara is often a great choice for its quality ingredients. However, for an unparalleled taste experience, especially when tomatoes are in peak season, I highly recommend preparing a batch of my homemade roasted tomato sauce – it’s absolutely dee-lish and elevates the entire dish!

How to Make Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups: A Step-by-Step Guide

Creating these delightful vegan zucchini lasagna roll ups is a straightforward process. Follow these easy steps to bring this healthy comfort food to your table:

Step 1: Prepare Your Dairy-Free Ricotta

First things first, gather all your ingredients. If you haven’t already prepared your homemade vegan ricotta, now is the time to do so. This can be made several days in advance, simplifying your meal prep.

To make the ricotta: Steam the cauliflower until very tender. Once cooled slightly, add the steamed cauliflower, slivered almonds, zested garlic, selected spices, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil to the bowl of a food processor. Pulse the mixture until it’s well combined, then scrape down the sides of the bowl. Continue processing until the mixture is beautifully smooth and creamy. For more detailed instructions and troubleshooting tips, please refer to the full homemade dairy-free ricotta recipe.

Step 2: Slice the Zucchini Noodles

Now, it’s time to transform your zucchini into those perfect lasagna noodles. Begin by trimming off both ends of each zucchini. Next, carefully slice a thin sliver lengthwise from one side of the zucchini. This creates a flat surface, allowing the zucchini to sit steadily on your cutting board, which makes slicing the long strips much easier and safer.

Using a vegetable peeler (or a mandoline for greater precision), firmly pull it across the entire length of the zucchini to create long, thin strips, approximately ⅛-inch thick. Continue this process until all three zucchinis have been transformed into your tender lasagna noodles.

While you’re preparing the zucchini, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Then, take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread about ¾ cup of your marinara sauce evenly across the bottom. This will form the flavorful base for your zucchini roll ups.

Step 3: Assemble the Roll Ups

Lay each zucchini strip flat on a clean cutting board or work surface. Take a generous teaspoon of the dairy-free ricotta and spread it evenly over the entire surface of each zucchini strip, ensuring good coverage for maximum flavor.

For an extra burst of freshness and aroma, sprinkle the ricotta-layered zucchini strips with fresh herbs if you have them on hand – oregano, thyme, basil, or parsley work beautifully. If fresh herbs aren’t available, a pinch of dried Italian seasoning will provide a lovely depth of flavor.

Carefully roll each zucchini noodle from one end to the other, creating a tight, neat roll. Once rolled, gently place it seam-side down onto the marinara sauce in your prepared baking dish. Continue this process, arranging the roll ups snugly in the dish until it is full.

Depending on the size of your baking dish and the number of roll ups you have, you can arrange them upright, standing on their ends, or lay them down flat. Choose the arrangement that best fits your pan and allows for optimal baking and presentation.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Once all your zucchini roll ups are neatly arranged in the baking dish, spoon the remaining ¾ cup of marinara sauce evenly over the tops. This ensures that every roll up is bathed in delicious tomato flavor and stays moist during baking.

Place the baking dish into your preheated oven and bake for approximately 25 minutes. The lasagna roll ups are ready when the marinara sauce is bubbling around the edges and the zucchini has softened to a tender, pasta-like consistency. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Expert Tips for Perfect Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups

Achieving culinary perfection with these vegan lasagna roll ups is easier than you think with these professional insights and clever shortcuts:

• Smart Time-Saving Shortcuts: Don’t hesitate to embrace convenience! There’s absolutely no shame in using a high-quality jarred marinara sauce (I personally love Rao’s Marinara for its clean ingredients and rich taste). Similarly, using a pre-made vegan ricotta, such as Kite Hill Almond Ricotta, can significantly reduce your preparation time without sacrificing quality.
• Boost the Flavor and Texture: For an enhanced filling, consider folding in some defrosted and well-drained frozen spinach into your ricotta mixture. This adds an extra layer of nutrients and a lovely earthy flavor. If you’re looking for more hearty substance and umami, a layer of savory vegan ground “beef” can be added over the ricotta for increased protein, texture, and a truly robust taste.
• Manage Moisture for Best Results: Zucchini naturally releases water during baking. To counteract this and prevent a watery casserole, try using a little less water when preparing your homemade ricotta. This creates a thicker, firmer filling that better absorbs any moisture from the zucchini.
• Precision Slicing Techniques: For consistently thin zucchini noodles, a mandoline slicer is an invaluable tool, allowing you to achieve uniform ⅛-inch thick strips with ease. However, don’t worry if you don’t own one; a good quality vegetable peeler works perfectly well and yields excellent results.
• The Salting Trick for Pliable Zucchini: If you accidentally slice your zucchini strips a bit too thick, or if they seem too stiff to roll, there’s a simple fix. Sprinkle the slices generously with coarse sea salt and let them sit for about 15 minutes. The salt will draw out excess moisture, softening the zucchini noodles and making them much easier to roll without breaking. Before filling, gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove any excess salt and moisture.
• Efficient Assembly Line Method: To streamline the rolling process, adopt an assembly line approach. Lay out as many zucchini strips as comfortably fit on your work surface. Spread the ricotta filling on all of them in one go, then proceed to roll each one and place it into the baking pan. This method is far more efficient than handling one strip at a time.
• Entertain with Ease: When hosting guests, these lasagna roll ups are the perfect make-ahead dish. Prepare them entirely in advance, cover, and refrigerate. When your guests arrive, simply pop the casserole into the oven. This allows you to relax and enjoy their company without being tied to the kitchen.
• A Thoughtful Gift: These vegan lasagna roll ups make a truly comforting and nourishing gift for a sick friend, someone grieving, or anyone who could use a warm hug in food form. Prepare the dish and deliver it ready to bake, providing a thoughtful and hassle-free meal for them to simply heat and enjoy.

Meal Prep and Storage Tips

These vegan zucchini lasagna roll ups are incredibly versatile when it comes to meal preparation and storage, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights or future gatherings.

• SERVING SUGGESTIONS: These delicious roll ups are best served warm, straight from the oven. They pair beautifully with a light and refreshing side, such as a simple green salad or a vibrant vegan Caesar salad, creating a balanced and satisfying meal.
• MAKE AHEAD PERFECTION:
  • Ricotta: The homemade vegan ricotta can be prepared up to 5 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • Unbaked Roll Ups: Assemble the zucchini roll ups completely in the baking dish, layering them over the marinara and topping with the additional sauce. Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days before baking. When ready to serve, simply bake as directed.
  • Baked & Cooled: Alternatively, you can fully prepare, bake, and then cool the casserole. Once cooled, cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 25 minutes, or until thoroughly heated through and bubbling.
• STORAGE: Leftover lasagna roll ups will remain fresh and delicious in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• FREEZING INSTRUCTIONS: Ensure the casserole is completely cool before transferring it to an airtight, freezer-safe container. This helps prevent ice crystals and maintains quality. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• REHEATING FROM FROZEN: To reheat from frozen, place the covered dish directly into a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about an hour, or until fully heated through and bubbling. If reheating from the refrigerator, follow the “Baked & Cooled” reheating instructions above.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some common questions about making these vegan lasagna roll ups, along with helpful answers to ensure your success:

• What kind of zucchini works best for rolling?

  Medium-sized zucchini work best. They are typically firm enough to handle slicing and rolling, but not so large that they become too watery or have overly large seeds. Look for zucchini that are smooth, firm, and free of blemishes.

• Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

  While zucchini is ideal for its pliability and mild flavor, you could experiment with other thinly sliced vegetables. Eggplant is a classic choice for a similar rollatini dish. Just be sure to salt and drain eggplant slices thoroughly to remove excess moisture and bitterness before assembling.

• Is this recipe truly low-carb?

  Yes, by replacing traditional pasta noodles with zucchini, this recipe significantly reduces the carbohydrate content, making it an excellent option for low-carb and ketogenic diets. The cauliflower almond ricotta also contributes to its low-carb profile compared to traditional dairy ricotta.

• Can I make these ahead for a dinner party?

  Absolutely! These vegan lasagna roll ups are perfect for entertaining. You can assemble them completely, cover the baking dish, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days before baking. This allows you to do the prep work in advance and simply bake the casserole when your guests arrive, ensuring a fresh and hot meal with minimal last-minute effort.

• What if my zucchini strips break when I try to roll them?

  If your zucchini strips are breaking, they might be too thick or not pliable enough. Try slicing them thinner. Alternatively, use the salting trick described in the “Expert Tips” section: sprinkle them with coarse sea salt, let them sit for 15 minutes, then pat dry. This process draws out moisture and makes them more flexible.

More Healthy Zucchini Recipes

• Vegan Zucchini Muffins
• Zucchini Pizza Bites Recipe
• Meaty Vegan Stuffed Zucchini Boats
• Zucchini Soup Recipe

Did you enjoy making these delicious Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups? Your feedback truly helps! Please consider leaving a five-star rating below and sharing your thoughts in a comment. We’d also love to see your culinary creations! Share your photos on Instagram by tagging me @dkhealthcoach and using the hashtag #debraklein. Your support means the world!

Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe

Author: Debra Klein

You’ll absolutely love these vegan lasagna roll ups. Crafted with tender, low-carb zucchini noodles, they’re filled with a creamy cauliflower almond ricotta, nestled in a flavorful marinara, and baked to perfection for a truly satisfying meal.

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars from 110 votes

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Prep Time: 10 mins

Cook Time: 25 mins

Total Time: 35 mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Servings: 6 Servings

Calories: 133 kcal

Equipment

• Food Processor
• 3 Quart Glass Oblong Baking Dish
• Peeler

Ingredients

• 3 medium sized zucchini
• 1 ½ cups marinara sauce
• 1 ½ cups dairy-free ricotta

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Trim both ends of each zucchini. Then, carefully cut a thin sliver lengthwise off one side of each zucchini so it can lay flat on your cutting board. Use a vegetable peeler (or a mandoline) to “peel” the zucchini lengthwise into long, consistent ⅛-inch thick strips.
3. Spread ¾ cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Lay zucchini ribbons flat on a clean surface. Spread 1 heaping teaspoon of dairy-free ricotta onto each zucchini ribbon. Roll each ribbon up and place it into the baking dish on top of the marinara. Continue this process until the baking dish is full.
4. Pour the remaining ¾ cup of marinara sauce over the top of the zucchini roll ups. If desired, sprinkle with fresh herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for added flavor.
5. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbling and the zucchini has softened. Serve immediately while hot and savor every delicious bite.

Video

Notes

Making homemade vegan ricotta is simple and results in an incredibly fresh and flavorful filling. It can be prepared up to a week in advance and stored in the fridge, making your meal prep even easier. If you prefer to save time, feel free to use a good quality store-bought vegan ricotta. For more detailed instructions on preparing the ricotta, please refer to my comprehensive vegan ricotta recipe.

Homemade Dairy-free Ricotta Ingredients:

• 2 cups cauliflower florets
• 1 cup slivered almonds
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and grated
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 Tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 2-4 Tablespoons water (as needed)

How to Make Homemade Ricotta: Steam the cauliflower until very tender. Once cooled slightly, place the steamed cauliflower, slivered almonds, grated garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, dried thyme, coarse sea salt, ground black pepper, and 2 Tablespoons of water into a food processor. Pulse until well combined, then scrape down the sides. Continue processing until the mixture is smooth and creamy, adding up to 2 additional Tablespoons of water, one tablespoon at a time, if needed to reach desired consistency.

Nutrition

Serving: 1g

Calories: 133kcal

Carbohydrates: 11g

Protein: 9g

Fat: 6g

Saturated Fat: 3g

Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 20mg

Sodium: 353mg

Fiber: 2g

Sugar: 5g

The nutrition calculations provided here are estimates based on online tools. For the most precise nutritional information for any given recipe, it is recommended that you calculate the data using the exact ingredients you utilize. You are ultimately responsible for verifying the accuracy, completeness, and utility of any nutritional information.

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