Do I need to salt the zucchini first?
Yes. Salting zucchini 15–20 minutes before cooking draws out excess moisture, preventing a watery lasagna. Pat dry with paper towels before breading.
Can I make this ahead?
Yes. Assemble the loaf, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bake when ready; add 5–10 minutes to baking time if starting from cold.
What can I substitute for prosciutto?
Pancetta, bacon, or thinly sliced deli ham work well. Vegetarians can omit it and add a layer of sautéed spinach instead.
Is this recipe truly low-carb?
Yes. Zucchini replaces pasta, keeping carbs minimal. The breadcrumb layer adds texture without significantly raising carb count per serving.
How do I know when it's done baking?
The zucchini should be tender when pierced with a fork, the cheese melted and lightly golden on top, and the edges pulling away from the pan slightly.