Description
These elegant, low-carb zucchini stacks are layered with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. Topped with fresh herbs, they make a wonderful appetizer, side dish, or light vegetarian meal that captures all the comforting flavors of classic Italian cuisine.
Ingredients
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Vegetables: 2 medium zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
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Sauce: 1 cup marinara or pasta sauce
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Cheese: 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese or provolone
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Seasoning & Herbs: 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste, plus fresh thyme or basil for garnish
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Oil: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prep the Zucchini: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange the zucchini slices in a single layer, brush lightly with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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Build the Stacks: On the baking sheet, build individual stacks by layering a zucchini slice, a spoonful of marinara sauce, a pinch of cheese, and another slice of zucchini. Repeat the layers to create double-decker stacks, finishing the top of each stack with marinara sauce and a generous layer of cheese.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden-brown.
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Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish each stack with fresh thyme or basil sprigs, and serve warm.
