This Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups recipe gives children the opportunity to practice an important kitchen skill: cutting. Using a child-safe knife and with adult supervision, children can help slice zucchini into long strips while learning proper knife safety and hand positioning. This hands-on task helps build confidence, fine motor skills, and independence in the kitchen. After preparing the zucchini, children can also mix the cheesy filling and roll up their lasagna spirals, making this a fun and engaging recipe from start to finish.

Zucchini Lasagna Roll-Ups

Makes: 4 servings

Ingredients

• 2 medium zucchini
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons flour
• ½ cup ricotta cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ cup tomato sauce
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Before You Begin

Adult Steps

• Wash the zucchini.
• Preheat the oven to 400°F.
• Gather all ingredients and equipment.
• Set out an 8 x 8-inch baking dish.
• Review safe knife skills with children.

Child Steps

• Wash hands with soap and water.
• Help gather ingredients and tools.
• Put on an apron if using one.

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

Adult Steps

• Trim the ends off the zucchini.
• Help children safely cut the zucchini into long, thin slices (about ⅛ inch thick). If needed, finish slicing any pieces that are too difficult.

Child Steps

• Using a child-safe knife and adult supervision, cut off the zucchini ends.
• Help slice the zucchini lengthwise into long strips.
• Lay the zucchini strips on paper towels to absorb extra moisture.

Step 2: Season the Zucchini

Adult Steps

• Pour olive oil into a small bowl.

Child Steps

• Use a pastry brush to brush olive oil onto the zucchini slices.
• Sprinkle oregano, black pepper, and flour over the zucchini.
• Carefully flip the slices and season the other side.

Step 3: Soften the Zucchini

Adult Steps

• Microwave the zucchini slices in batches between paper towels for about 40 seconds per batch.
• Let them cool slightly before children handle them.

Child Steps

• Place cooled zucchini slices on a plate when they are ready.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Filling

Adult Steps

• Crack the egg into a mixing bowl if needed.

Child Steps

• Add the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, and garlic powder to a bowl.
• Stir until well combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Roll-Ups

Adult Steps

• Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

Child Steps

• Spoon a small amount of cheese filling onto each zucchini slice.
• Spread the filling gently with a spoon.
• Roll each zucchini slice into a spiral.
• Place each roll-up upright in the baking dish.

Step 6: Add the Topping

Child Steps

• Sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the roll-ups.

Adult Steps

• Check that the roll-ups are packed closely together in the baking dish.

Step 7: Bake

Adult Steps

• Place the baking dish in the oven.
• Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the zucchini is tender and the cheese is melted.
• Remove from the oven and allow to cool for several minutes.

Child Steps

• Watch as the cheese melts and bubbles.
• Help set the table while the roll-ups cool.

Enjoy!

Serve warm and enjoy your zucchini lasagna roll-ups!