Step 1

Position a rack in the top position of oven; preheat broiler to high.

Step 2

Combine ricotta, Parmesan, basil, garlic and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in a medium bowl. Set aside.

Step 3

Using a spiral vegetable slicer or a vegetable peeler, cut summer squash lengthwise into long, thin strands or strips. Stop when you reach the seeds. You should have about 6 cups of "noodles." Place them on a cutting board and shape into an even 10-inch square. Cut the square into quarters. Transfer each "nest" to a 9-by-13-inch broiler-safe pan (or similar size 3-quart baking dish). Repeat with zucchini. Arrange the zucchini nests in an alternating pattern with the summer squash.

Step 4

Drizzle the nests with oil and season with salt and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Make a well in the center of each and spoon in about 2 tablespoons filling.

Step 5

Broil the nests until browned in spots, 6 to 8 minutes. Serve warm.