Zucchini Magic! A GERD-Friendly Gluten-Free Ricotta Tart That Won't Heartburn Your Heart Away

Say hello to your new favorite summer dish! This gluten-free tart is a deliciously refreshing combo of creamy ricotta cheese, zucchini, and a burst of fresh herbs. Adapted for those with GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease), it's gentle on your stomach without skimping on flavor. Perfect for a breezy summer brunch or a light dinner, this vegetarian delight is your ticket to a happy, healthy meal!

Ingredients

Gluten-Free Tart Crust

You can choose between the convenience of a store-bought gluten-free tart crust and making your own at home. 

GERD-Friendly Herbed Ricotta Filling

The star of this tart is the creamy herbed ricotta filling, specially crafted to be gentle on the stomach. Fresh ricotta cheese blended with GERD-friendly herbs like basil, parsley, and a hint of dill delivers a flavorful yet mild taste.

Zucchini Topping

The thinly sliced zucchini crowns the tart, adding a refreshing final touch while keeping things light and nutritious.

All About Zucchini: A July Superstar!

Zucchini, a summer squash variety, is at its peak in July, offering the freshest and most flavorful produce of the season. With its mild flavor and versatility in cooking, zucchini can be used in everything from salads to savory dishes. Nutritionally, zucchini is a powerhouse, rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making it a healthy addition to any meal. This refreshing veggie is also packed with water, aiding digestion by softening the stool and can help prevent constipation. One cup of sliced zucchini contains half a cup of water!

All About Ricotta Cheese

Ricotta cheese, an Italian whey cheese, is traditionally made from cow, sheep, goat, or buffalo milk. Its creamy texture and mild flavor make it an excellent ingredient for sweet and savory dishes. Traditionally, ricotta is created by reheating the whey from other cheese-making processes, which results in its signature soft and slightly grainy consistency. This versatile cheese is perfect for everything from lasagna and stuffed pasta to cheesecakes and pastries, adding a rich and smooth element to any recipe.

GERD-Friendly Tweaks

Certain foods that relax the lower esophageal sphincter or increase stomach acid production can trigger GERD. Acidic tomatoes or spicy ingredients are often to blame for flare-ups, but don't worry—we've got your back! This recipe is thoughtfully crafted to avoid these common GERD triggers, ensuring a gentle and enjoyable meal.

Tips and Variations

• Consider substituting different GERD-friendly herbs like basil or parsley for added flavor.
• Add other low-acid vegetables such as asparagus, green beans, or spinach.
• Choose pre-shredded low-fat ricotta cheese for convenience.
• Experiment with different crust options, like an almond flour crust, which is naturally gluten-free and can be lower in fat than traditional butter crusts.
• When reheating leftovers, use gentle heat to avoid overcooking the ricotta filling and maintain its creamy texture.

Conclusion

This GERD-friendly tart combines the delicious flavor of ricotta cheese with calming herbs and zucchini nestled inside a gluten-free tart. Its versatility allows for easy substitutions, like using basil or parsley and adding vegetables such as asparagus or green beans. This recipe is a great starting point for creating a delicious, reflux-friendly meal that is easily adjustable to meet your needs and preferences.

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1. _{Fooddata Central Search Results. FoodData Central. (n.d.). https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/169291/nutrients} 
2. _{Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2024, May 24). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361959}