Ingredients
Cheese Layer
- 12 oz vegan ricotta (store-bought or tofu-based)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 cup shredded vegan cheese (optional)
Vegetables
- 4 large zucchini
Sauce
- 1 1/4 – 1 1/2 cups jarred tomato sauce
- Sea salt for salting zucchini
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375ºF to prepare for baking the lasagna.
- Prepare Ricotta: If using store-bought vegan ricotta, place it in a bowl and add the tablespoon of Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine and set aside in the fridge. If using tofu ricotta, this step is not needed.
- Slice Zucchini: Using a mandolin slicer, thinly slice the zucchini into long strips. If a mandolin is unavailable, carefully slice with a knife aiming for even thickness.
- Salt Zucchini: Line baking sheets with paper towels. Spread zucchini slices in a single layer on the paper towels, sprinkle sea salt over them, and let them sit for at least 15 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
- Dry Zucchini: After 15 minutes, pat the zucchini slices dry with additional paper towels to remove the moisture released.
- Assemble Lasagna – Base Layer: In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread 1/2 cup of tomato sauce evenly across the bottom.
- Assemble Lasagna – Layering: Place a layer of zucchini strips to cover the sauce completely. Add about 1/3 to 1/2 cup of the seasoned vegan ricotta on top and spread evenly. Spoon a thin layer of sauce (approximately 1/4 cup) over the ricotta.
- Repeat Layers: Continue layering zucchini, ricotta, and tomato sauce following the same pattern until all ingredients are used or the dish is filled.
- Final Layer: Finish with a layer of zucchini, then top with 1/3 to 1/2 cup of tomato sauce spread evenly. Optionally, sprinkle the shredded vegan cheese over the top.
- Bake: Place the assembled lasagna on the center rack and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, until the zucchini is tender and the layers are cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Let the lasagna cool for 10 to 15 minutes to set, then slice into 6 portions and serve warm.
Notes
- Salting the zucchini is essential to remove excess moisture and prevent a watery lasagna.
- If you prefer, make your own tofu ricotta to avoid the seasoning step.
- Use a mandolin slicer for even, thin zucchini slices; uneven slices may affect cooking times.
- Allow the dish to cool before slicing for cleaner serving portions.
- Optional vegan cheese adds a nice melty topping but can be omitted for a lower-fat dish.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan