Delicious Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe

Vegetarian lasagna is a beloved dish that combines the richness of béchamel sauce with layers of pasta and vegetables, offering a delightful array of flavors in every bite. This classic recipe is perfect for family gatherings or casual dinners. With fewer than 30 minutes needed to prepare and about an hour in total cooking time, it's both convenient and satisfying. It serves four people, making it ideal for a small group or as leftovers over the course of two meals.

Ingredients

• 15-ounce package lasagna noodles (preferably whole wheat)
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced finely
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium zucchini, sliced thinly
• 1 medium bell pepper, sliced thinly
• 3 cups fresh spinach or kale (or a combination of both)
• 1 1/4 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 can crushed tomatoes (preferably low-sodium)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preparation of the pasta layers: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cooking the vegetables: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until softened but not browned. Then add zucchini, bell pepper, and spinach or kale. Stir continuously to wilt the greens. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Making the filling: In a bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, eggs, Parmesan cheese, and half of the cooked vegetables. Season with salt and pepper if necessary.

4. Laying out the lasagna layers: Spread a layer of crushed tomatoes on the bottom of an oven dish. Cover with half of the remaining vegetable mixture, then top it off with half of the lasagna noodles. Repeat this process until all ingredients are used up—topping with another layer of sauce and Parmesan.

5. Baking: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly on top. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh basil if desired.

Tips and Variations

To add more texture, consider adding some sautéed mushrooms along with the vegetables or substituting half of the spinach with asparagus tips. For a richer sauce, you could also mix in sun-dried tomatoes. If you're looking to reduce calorie intake, you can opt for whole wheat noodles and use skim milk instead of full-fat ricotta cheese.

Conclusion

<

p>Vegetarian lasagna is more than just a meal; it's a celebration of simple ingredients brought together in harmony. Its versatility makes it easy to adapt based on personal tastes or dietary preferences, ensuring that everyone finds something delightful within this dish. Whether you're looking for a comforting dinner option or want to impress guests with your culinary skills, vegetarian lasagna offers the perfect solution. Enjoy cooking and savoring its flavors!