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:
- salt the zucchini: sprinkling sea salt over zucchini slices draws out excess moisture. after about 15-20 minutes, blot them dry with a towel.
- precook the slices: lightly grilling or baking the zucchini before assembling your lasagna helps remove even more water.
- thicken your ricotta: the tapioca starch in the tofu ricotta keeps it creamy while preventing it from becoming too runny.
- 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:
- prep your zucchini by slicing, salting, and blotting it to remove moisture. precook the slices if desired.
- whip up a creamy tofu ricotta in your food processor with extra-firm tofu, dairy-free milk, tapioca starch, nutritional yeast, and seasonings.
- 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.
- bake at 375°F, covered, for 30 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes to get a bubbly, golden top.
- 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
High Protein Eggless Salad Melt
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
Protein-Packed Green Goddess Pasta Salad
Plant-Based Protein “Breadsticks” (11g+ per breadstick!)
Blue Zone Lentil and Chickpea Gemista
Revitalizing Salad with Carrot Ginger Miso Dressing
Savory Vegan Protein-Packed Breakfast Sandwiches
Delicious Plant-Based Chickpea & Spinach Nuggets
Satisfying Coconut Tofu Salad with Curry Tahini Dressing

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Low Carb Plant Based Protein-Packed Lasagna
Recipe by MaryCourse: Snacks6
servings15
minutes50
minutesIngredients
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.


