{ RECIPE :: Zucchini Lasagna }

I can't believe how much I loved this dish. I've had my eye one it for quite some time and finally got around to making it tonight. It's a naturally gluten-free Zucchini Lasagna from Skinny Taste. It was just like she said "you won't miss the pasta!" It's true! What a delicious, low carb, gluten free dish. The only thing I wish I had for the prep work was a mandolin to slice the zucchini quick and easy. Maybe a birthday present? Hint. Hint. We will definitely be making this recipe again and again and again.

INGREDIENTS:
1 lb 93% lean beef
3 cloves garlic
1/2 onion
1 tsp olive oil
salt and pepper
28 oz can crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
3 medium zucchini, sliced 1/8" thick
15 oz part-skim ricotta
16 oz part-skin mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup Parmigiano Reggiano
1 large egg

DIRECTIONS:
In a medium sauce pan, brown meat and season with salt. When cooked drain in colander to remove any fat. Add olive oil to the pan and saute garlic and onions about 2 minutes. Return the meat to the pan, add tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper. Simmer on low for at least 30-40minutes, covered. Do not add extra water, the sauce should be thick.

Meanwhile, slice zucchini into 1/8" thick slices, add lightly salt and set aside or 10 minutes. Zucchini has a lot of water when cooked, salting it takes out a lot of moisture. After 10 minutes, blot excess moisture with a paper towel.

On a gas grill or grill pan, grill zucchini on each side, until cooked, about 1-2 minutes per side. Place on paper towels to soak any excess moisture.

Preheat oven to 350°.

In a medium bowl mix ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese and egg. Stir well.

In a 9x12 casserole spread some sauce on the bottom and layer the zucchini to cover. Then place some of the ricotta cheese mixture, then top with the mozzarella cheese and repeat the process until all your ingredients are used up. Top with sauce and mozzarella and cover with foil.

Bake 45 minutes covered at 375°, then uncovered 15 minutes. Let stand about 5 - 10 minutes before serving.

NOTE: I used a ready made tomato basil spaghetti sauce for lack of time. Still tasted great!

Servings: 8 • Serving Size: 1/8 • Old Points: 8 pts • Points+: 9 pts Calories: 345 • Fat: 17 g • Carbs: 16 g • Fiber: 2 g • Protein: 36 g • Sugar: 8 g Sodium: 801 (without salt)