Name: Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 medium sized zucchini; 1 ½ cups marinara sauce; 1 ½ cups dairy-free ricotta; Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley), for sprinkling

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a fresh, flavorful twist on classic Italian comfort food, these Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups are a total game changer. Layers of delicate zucchini ribbons rolled around creamy dairy-free ricotta and smothered in vibrant marinara sauce create a dish that’s bursting with color, texture, and irresistible taste. Perfect for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a dinner party, this recipe is as satisfying as it is easy to make, proving that vegan cooking can be both simple and sensational.

Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a special role to make these Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups absolutely sing. From the fresh zucchini that replaces traditional noodles to the luscious dairy-free ricotta that adds creamy richness, every element combines for a deliciously balanced dish.

3 medium sized zucchini: These act like tender, fresh lasagna noodles, offering a light and nutritious base for the fillings.
1 ½ cups marinara sauce: A vibrant, flavorful tomato sauce that brings moisture and that classic Italian zest to every bite.
1 ½ cups dairy-free ricotta: Creamy, smooth, and perfect for vegans, this adds richness and balances the acidity of the sauce beautifully.

How to Make Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups

Step 1: Preparing the Zucchini Ribbons

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to have it ready for baking. Then, trim the ends of your zucchini and carefully slice a small flat edge lengthwise. This helps the zucchini ribbons lay flat while you peel them into long, thin strips about 1/8 inch thick using a vegetable peeler. These delicate ribbons are your lasagna “noodles,” so taking time here will make assembly easier and prettier.

Step 2: Assembling the Dish

Spoon ¾ cup of marinara sauce evenly over the bottom of a 9 x 13 baking dish to create a flavorful base layer. Next, spread about a heaping teaspoon of the dairy-free ricotta onto each zucchini ribbon before rolling them up gently but firmly. Place each roll seam side down on top of the saucy base, filling the dish snugly without squishing the rolls.

Step 3: Adding Sauce and Baking

Pour the remaining ¾ cup of marinara sauce evenly over the zucchini roll ups, ensuring each one gets beautifully coated. If you have fresh herbs like basil or parsley, sprinkle them over the top for a burst of color and added aroma. Then bake your Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. When they come out, the sauce will be bubbling, and the ricotta filling perfectly warmed – that’s the moment you dive in.

How to Serve Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups

Garnishes

To elevate your Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups, fresh herbs such as basil, oregano, or parsley are wonderful. They brighten the dish and add a fresh finish. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also add a touch of richness and shine, making each roll-up look as delicious as it tastes. For an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts or vegan parmesan can add a delightful crunch and depth.

Side Dishes

These roll ups pair beautifully with crisp, refreshing salads to balance their warm, savory nature. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or a crunchy cucumber tomato salad works wonderfully. You can also serve them with garlic bread made from crusty vegan-friendly baguette to keep that Italian vibe going strong. Roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables make an excellent companion for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress guests or just make dinner feel extra special, try plating individual Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups on a large platter with extra marinara sauce drizzled artistically around. You can also serve them on small plates with a fork standing upright for an elegant look. Another fun option is to layer the roll ups in clear glass baking dishes and let everyone scoop their own portions, enjoying the layers of sauce, zucchini, and ricotta.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups, they store very well in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Keep them for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the flavors continue to meld. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat gently to enjoy the same luscious taste as fresh.

Freezing

For longer storage, these roll ups freeze beautifully. Place them in a freezer-safe container or wrap them tightly in foil and plastic wrap. They will keep for up to 2 months. To avoid freezer burn, make sure they are well sealed and labeled with the date.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbling. Microwave reheating works too but can sometimes cause the zucchini to become watery, so the oven is preferred for best texture.

FAQs

Can I use other vegetables instead of zucchini?

Absolutely! Thinly sliced eggplant or even large strips of roasted sweet potato can make great alternatives to zucchini. However, zucchini is favored for its mild flavor and flexibility, which closely mimics traditional pasta layers.

Where can I find dairy-free ricotta?

Many stores now carry plant-based ricotta made from nuts like almonds or cashews, or tofu-based versions. You can find them in the refrigerated vegan section or natural foods aisle. You can also make your own at home with blended tofu, lemon juice, and nutritional yeast.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is naturally mild, but you can easily add spice by mixing crushed red pepper flakes into the marinara or topping the roll ups with a pinch of chili powder before baking.

Can I prepare Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups in advance?

Yes! You can assemble the roll ups and cover them in sauce, then refrigerate until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to cooking time if baking from cold.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, since zucchini replaces traditional pasta noodles, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Final Thoughts

Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups are a bright, delicious way to enjoy classic Italian flavors without traditional pasta or dairy. With simple ingredients and a straightforward process, this dish promises layers of flavor and warmth that will quickly become a household favorite. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making these roll ups again and again, sharing them with friends and savoring every delightful bite.

Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 9 reviews

Author: Harry
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegan

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Description

This Vegan Lasagna Roll Ups recipe offers a fresh, healthy twist on traditional lasagna by using zucchini ribbons as pasta substitutes, filled with creamy dairy-free ricotta and topped with rich marinara sauce. Perfect for a light, gluten-free meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

3 medium sized zucchini

Sauces and Fillings

1 ½ cups marinara sauce
1 ½ cups dairy-free ricotta

Optional Garnishes

Fresh herbs (such as basil or parsley), for sprinkling

Instructions

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the lasagna roll ups.
Prepare Zucchini Ribbons: Trim the ends of the zucchini. To create flat ribbons, slice off a thin sliver from one side of each zucchini so it rests stable on the cutting board, then use a vegetable peeler to shave zucchini lengthwise into long strips approximately 1/8 inch thick.
Assemble Roll Ups: Spread 3/4 cup of marinara sauce evenly on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Take each zucchini ribbon, spread about 1 heaping teaspoon of dairy-free ricotta on it, then roll it up tightly. Place the roll ups seam side down onto the sauce in the baking dish. Repeat until the dish is full.
Add Sauce and Herbs: Pour the remaining 3/4 cup of marinara sauce evenly over the top of the zucchini roll ups, ensuring they are well coated. Sprinkle fresh herbs over the top for added flavor and aroma, if desired.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, allowing the roll ups to heat through and the flavors to meld. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, healthy vegan dish.

Notes

Ensure zucchini ribbons are thin enough to roll without breaking, about 1/8 inch thick.
Use firm but ripe zucchini to avoid excess moisture during baking.
Customize with your favorite herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
For added protein, consider mixing cooked lentils or tofu into the dairy-free ricotta.
Make sure to drain or pat dry the zucchini ribbons to reduce water content and keep the dish from becoming soggy.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian