Low Carb Plant Based Protein-Packed Lasagna

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low-carb plant-based protein-packed zucchini lasagna: a comforting twist on a classic

if you love lasagna but want a lightened-up, low-carb version that’s still packed with flavor and protein, this zucchini lasagna is about to be your new go-to recipe!

made with tender zucchini “noodles,” a creamy tofu ricotta, and a savory marinara sauce, it’s hearty, satisfying, and totally plant-based.

taste and texture: a perfect balance

this lasagna has all the comforting flavors of a classic italian dish.

the zucchini noodles are tender yet sturdy, soaking up the savory marinara and adding a subtle veggie sweetness.

the tofu ricotta is creamy, cheesy, and lightly tangy, with just the right amount of richness to balance the fresh zucchini.

add vegan mozzarella on top for a melty, golden finish, and you’ve got layers of flavor and texture that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

why it works: low-carb and protein-packed

zucchini replaces traditional pasta noodles, slashing the carbs while adding fiber and nutrients.

tofu takes the place of dairy ricotta, bringing a boost of plant-based protein to every slice.

thanks to the tapioca starch in the tofu ricotta, the lasagna holds together beautifully, creating a dish that feels indulgent but packs a nutrient-dense punch.

tips for avoiding watery lasagna

zucchini is delicious, but its high water content can lead to a soggy lasagna if you’re not careful. here’s how to keep things firm and flavorful:

  1. salt the zucchini: sprinkling sea salt over zucchini slices draws out excess moisture. after about 15-20 minutes, blot them dry with a towel.
  2. precook the slices: lightly grilling or baking the zucchini before assembling your lasagna helps remove even more water.
  3. thicken your ricotta: the tapioca starch in the tofu ricotta keeps it creamy while preventing it from becoming too runny.
  4. choose a thick marinara: avoid watery sauces by opting for a robust marinara with minimal added liquid.

how to make it

making this zucchini lasagna is straightforward and rewarding. here’s a quick rundown:

  1. prep your zucchini by slicing, salting, and blotting it to remove moisture. precook the slices if desired.
  2. whip up a creamy tofu ricotta in your food processor with extra-firm tofu, dairy-free milk, tapioca starch, nutritional yeast, and seasonings.
  3. layer the zucchini, ricotta, and marinara in an 8 x 8-inch pan. repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of marinara.
  4. bake at 375°F, covered, for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes to get a bubbly, golden top.
  5. let the lasagna rest before slicing for perfect layers and easier serving.

substitution options

  • zucchini: swap it for thinly sliced eggplant or yellow squash for a slightly different flavor.
  • tapioca starch: use arrowroot powder or cornstarch if you don’t have tapioca on hand.
  • vegan mozzarella: skip it or replace it with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra cheesiness without added fat.

storage tips

this lasagna stores beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep:

  • fridge: keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven.
  • freezer: freeze slices in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. reheat from frozen at 350°F until hot and bubbly.

a healthier twist you’ll crave

this low-carb plant-based protein-packed zucchini lasagna has everything you love about the classic dish—layers of flavor, a creamy filling, and a hearty marinara—without the carb content.

with its high protein content and veggie-forward approach, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, meal prep, or even a family gathering. try it out, and enjoy a healthier take on comfort food!

if you like Low Carb Plant Based Protein-Packed Lasagna you’ll also love these other recipes of mine!

Quick and Easy Farro Chickpea Salad with Vegan Feta Crumbles

Rainbow Veggie Crunch and Roasted Cashew Salad

Zesty Wellness Bowl: Ginger-Boosted Vegan Kale and Tofu Salad

Vibrant and Hearty Vegan Winter Salad

The Best Kale, Cranberry and Butternut Squash Thanksgiving Side Salad

Nourishing Fall Salad Flatbreads

Vegan Spicy Peanut Cashew Salad

Vegan La Scala Chopped Salad

High Protein Eggless Salad Melt

Vegan Black Rice Noodle Salad

Goddess Glow Nutrient-Packed Salad

Vegan Chickpea Waldorf Salad Sandwich

Vegan Tofu Parmesan Caesar Salad Wraps

Vegan Maple Sweet Potato and Bacon Harvest Salad

Unreal Healthy Plant-Based Gluten-Free Broccoli Pizzas

Plant-Based Convenient Veggie & Hummus Pasta

Cozy Sun-Dried Tomato & Chickpea Kale Soup

Plant-Based Spanakopita Baked Spaghetti Squash

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Plant-Based Protein “Breadsticks” (11g+ per breadstick!)

Blue Zone Lentil and Chickpea Gemista

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Savory Vegan Protein-Packed Breakfast Sandwiches

Delicious Plant-Based Chickpea & Spinach Nuggets

Satisfying Coconut Tofu Salad with Curry Tahini Dressing

are you going to make Low Carb Plant Based Protein-Packed Lasagna!?

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Low Carb Plant Based Protein-Packed Lasagna

Recipe by MaryCourse: Snacks
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

50

minutes

Ingredients

  • for the zucchini noodles
    3-4 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise into 1/8-inch thick strips (use mandolin for most even results)
    1/2 tsp sea salt

    for the tofu ricotta
    28 ounces extra-firm tofu, pressed and crumbled
    1/2 cup unsweetened dairy-free milk
    2 tbsp tapioca starch
    1/4 cup nutritional yeast
    1/2 tbsp garlic powder
    1/2 tbsp onion powder
    1/2 tsp sea salt
    1 tbsp lemon juice

    for the marinara layer
    2 cups marinara sauce (low-carb, no-sugar-added preferred)


    optional toppings
    1 cup vegan mozzarella shreds for the top

Directions

  • prepare the zucchini
    lay zucchini strips on paper towels or a clean kitchen towel. sprinkle with sea salt and let sit for 15-20 minutes to draw out excess water.
  • pat the zucchini dry with another towel to remove the moisture. bake the zucchini slices at 375°F for 10 minutes, then blot again.
  • make the tofu ricotta
    in a food processor, combine the pressed tofu, dairy-free milk, tapioca starch, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and lemon juice. blend until smooth and creamy. set aside.
  • assemble the lasagna
    preheat your oven to 375°F. in an 8 x 8-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
    add a layer of zucchini slices to cover the bottom of the dish.
  • spread 1/3 of the tofu ricotta evenly over the zucchini. add a layer of marinara sauce. repeat the layering process (zucchini, ricotta, marinara) until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a final layer of marinara. sprinkle 1 cup of vegan mozzarella shreds on top.
  • bake the lasagna
    cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. uncover and bake for an additional 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
  • cool and serve
    allow the lasagna to rest for at least 20 minutes before slicing to ensure it sets properly.

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hi, i'm mary!

I create healthy recipes using real foods that will nourish both your body and soul.

Here, you’ll find everything from scrumptious desserts to savory and nourishing comfort food. Thank you for being here and I hope you enjoy my delicious creations

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