If you’re following a keto lifestyle or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional pasta, this Zucchini Ravioli recipe is a must-try. As an Italian, I never thought I could enjoy ravioli without pasta, but this dish delivers all the satisfying flavors and textures of the classic—without the carbs. Packed with cheesy goodness and topped with marinara, it’s a delightful and fun dish to assemble.
Ingredients for Keto-Friendly Zucchini Ravioli
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious low-carb meal:
- 2 medium zucchinis
- 1 cup (240 ml) keto-friendly marinara sauce
- 1 cup (240 g) ricotta cheese
- 3 ounces (85 g) mozzarella cheese
- 1 egg
- A few pinches of salt and Italian seasoning
- Parmesan cheese, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions for Keto-Friendly Zucchini Ravioli
1. Prepare the Zucchini Strips
- Wash the zucchinis thoroughly.
- Use a vegetable peeler to slice the zucchinis into thin strips. Aim for long, even slices for easier assembly.
- Lay the strips on paper towels and sprinkle them lightly with salt. Let them sit for 20 minutes to draw out excess water.
2. Make the Ricotta Filling
- In a bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, a small amount of Parmesan, the egg, Italian seasoning, pink salt, and pepper. For an added twist, consider mixing in chopped spinach.
3. Assemble the Ravioli
- Pat the zucchini strips with additional paper towels to ensure they’re completely dry.
- Lay four zucchini strips in a crisscross pattern, resembling a tic-tac-toe board.
- Place a tablespoon of the ricotta mixture in the center of the crisscross.
- Fold the strips over the filling, alternating sides to create a neat package.
- Set the folded ravioli aside on a cutting board and repeat with the remaining strips and filling. This recipe makes approximately 12 ravioli.
4. Prepare the Baking Dish
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking pan.
- Place the prepared zucchini ravioli on top of the sauce.
- Cover the ravioli with the remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
5. Bake the Ravioli
- Bake the dish in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. For extra golden goodness, broil the dish for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven and let the ravioli sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with more Parmesan or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
Tips for Serving
This zucchini ravioli is satisfying enough to serve as a main course but also pairs wonderfully with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. The cheesy filling and savory marinara sauce make it a dish the whole family will love—even those who aren’t on a keto diet!
This Keto-Friendly Zucchini Ravioli is proof that you can enjoy comforting Italian flavors while sticking to a low-carb lifestyle. The zucchini provides a tender yet sturdy replacement for pasta, while the cheesy filling and marinara sauce bring all the classic flavors together. It’s a wholesome, delicious recipe that’s easy to prepare and sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it tonight and indulge in guilt-free comfort food!