Zucchini pizza roll-ups (Print Version)

Thinly sliced zucchini rolled with marinara, mozzarella, and savory fillings, baked until golden and bubbly.

# Components:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 large zucchini, ends trimmed

→ Sauce

02 - 1/2 cup marinara or pizza sauce

→ Cheeses

03 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
04 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

→ Fillings

05 - 12-16 slices turkey or regular pepperoni (optional, substitute with vegetables for vegetarian)
06 - 1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
07 - 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (optional)

→ Herbs & Seasoning

08 - 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
09 - Salt and pepper, to taste
10 - Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

# Directions:

01 - Set oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Using a mandoline slicer or sharp knife, cut zucchini lengthwise into thin strips approximately 1/8 inch thick.
03 - Arrange zucchini strips on the baking sheet, lightly salt them, and allow to rest for 10 minutes to draw out moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
04 - Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce evenly over each zucchini strip.
05 - Sprinkle mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, and desired fillings such as pepperoni, olives, and bell peppers evenly over each strip.
06 - Sprinkle dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper over the layered ingredients.
07 - Carefully roll each zucchini strip and place seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
08 - Spoon remaining marinara sauce and cheese over the zucchini roll-ups as desired.
09 - Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
10 - Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and serve while hot.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It feels sneakily healthy—a way to indulge classic pizza cravings without the heaviness.
  • The crispy edges, gooey cheese, and customizable fillings make these roll-ups irresistible at parties or weeknight dinners alike.
02 -
  • If you skip salting and drying the zucchini, your roll-ups will end up swimming in liquid—I learned this after my first messy batch.
  • Using a thick marinara (or simmering yours down if it is thin) keeps everything from sliding apart when rolling up.
03 -
  • Let the roll-ups cool for a few minutes—they firm up and are easier to serve.
  • A sprinkling of extra Parmesan just before serving gives the most tempting finish.
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