Vegetable Lasagna
Vegetable lasagna is a delicious and hearty dish that showcases the best of seasonal produce while delivering comfort in every bite.
Layered with tender noodles, rich marinara sauce, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this vegetarian lasagna is a wholesome alternative to traditional meat-based versions. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it’s perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.
Making vegetable lasagna allows for plenty of creativity, as you can incorporate your favorite vegetables and even customize the cheeses and sauces.
This recipe includes a mix of zucchini, spinach, and bell peppers, complemented by a creamy ricotta and mozzarella mixture. Let’s dive into how to create this satisfying and wholesome dish!
Ingredients
- 9-12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or regular, depending on preference)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium zucchini, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for topping)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
How to Make Vegetable Lasagna
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature will ensure even cooking and browning of the cheese on top.
Prepare the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Sauté the Remaining Vegetables: Add the sliced zucchini, diced bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the fresh spinach and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Remove from heat and set aside.
Mix the Cheese Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and set aside.
Assemble the Lasagna: In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the sautéed vegetable mixture. Pour one-third of the marinara sauce over the vegetables and sprinkle with one-third of the shredded mozzarella cheese.
Repeat the Layers: Repeat the layering process: add another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the rest of the vegetables, another third of the marinara sauce, and another third of the mozzarella cheese. Top with a final layer of noodles, the remaining marinara sauce, and the rest of the mozzarella cheese. Finish with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor and a nice crust.
Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. Pair with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Chef’s Note
Make-Ahead: This vegetable lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze it before baking for a convenient meal later.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand! Broccoli, kale, or eggplant can all be delicious additions to this lasagna.
Cheese Options: You can experiment with different cheeses, such as adding ricotta with herbs or using goat cheese for a tangy twist.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
Vegetable lasagna is a nutrient-dense meal that provides a good balance of protein from the cheeses, fiber from the vegetables, and carbohydrates from the noodles.
It’s a perfect way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing flavor. This hearty dish is sure to please everyone at your table, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe collection! Enjoy this comforting and satisfying meal!
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