*Yields: 6 servings | Prep time: 20 min | Bake time: 35 min*
### **1. The Ingredients**
**The “Crust” & Layers**
* 4 Large Zucchinis (sliced into 1/2 cm thick rounds or long planks)
* 1 tsp Sea salt (to draw out moisture)
* 2 tbsp Extra virgin olive oil
**The Anti-Inflammatory Meat Sauce**
* 1 lb Lean ground turkey or grass-fed beef
* 1 Small onion, finely diced
* 3 Cloves garlic, minced
* 1 tsp Ground turmeric (paired with a pinch of black pepper for absorption)
* 1 tsp Dried oregano
* 1 tsp Dried basil
* 2 cups Low-sugar marinara or crushed tomatoes
* ½ tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
**The Topping**
* 1.5 cups Shredded Mozzarella (or a cashew-based cheese for a dairy-free option)
* ¼ cup Fresh basil leaves, torn
* Optional: Sliced bell peppers or olives
### **2. Instructions**
**Step 1: Prep the Zucchini (Crucial Step)**
1. Place zucchini slices on a baking sheet lined with paper towels. Sprinkle with sea salt and let sit for 15 minutes.
2. Pat them very dry with more paper towels.
3. Briefly roast the slices at **200°C** for 10 minutes to firm them up. This prevents the casserole from becoming watery.
**Step 2: Simmer the Sauce**
1. In a large skillet, brown the meat over medium heat until cooked through. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft.
3. Stir in the turmeric, black pepper, oregano, and basil.
4. Pour in the marinara sauce and simmer on low for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
**Step 3: Assemble the Casserole**
1. Spread a thin layer of sauce on the bottom of a **9×13 inch** baking dish.
2. Create a layer of roasted zucchini slices, overlapping them slightly.
3. Spread half of the remaining meat sauce over the zucchini.
4. Add another layer of zucchini, followed by the rest of the sauce.
5. Top evenly with the shredded mozzarella (or dairy-free alternative) and any extra vegetable toppings.
**Step 4: Bake**
1. Bake at **190°C** for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown on the edges.
2. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set so you get that perfect “pizza square” look.
3. Garnish with fresh torn basil just before serving.
### **Why This Works**
* **Zucchini:** Low-carb and high in antioxidants like lutein.
* **Turmeric & Garlic:** Powerful natural anti-inflammatories.
* **Extra Virgin Olive Oil:** Provides healthy monounsaturated fats that help the body absorb the nutrients in the vegetables.
**Serving Suggestion:** Serve with a simple side salad of arugula and lemon vinaigrette to add a fresh, peppery crunch to the meal.
