Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe: A Comforting Meal for All Seasons

Vegetarian lasagna is a beloved dish that caters to those looking for hearty yet healthy meal options. This classic Italian-American favorite combines layers of pasta, creamy béchamel sauce, and an array of vegetables and cheeses. Perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, vegetarian lasagna provides a balanced meal rich in nutrients.

With its versatility and delicious flavors, this recipe can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy weekdays when you need to put together a satisfying dinner quickly. Let’s dive into how you can prepare this comforting dish at home!

Ingredients

• 1 pound lasagna noodles (uncooked)
• 3 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, divided
• 3 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 ½ tablespoons Italian seasoning mix
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans no-salt-added crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 small red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups spinach, washed and roughly chopped

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the Pasta: Boil the lasagna noodles in salted water until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Mix Ricotta and Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, ½ cup Parmesan, beaten eggs, and Italian seasoning. Set aside this mixture for later use.
4. Bake the Lasagna Base: Spread half of the crushed tomatoes over the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer with one-third of the lasagna noodles followed by a third of the ricotta cheese and egg mixture, half of the remaining tomato sauce, some mozzarella, zucchini slices, red bell peppers, and spinach.
5. Repeat Layers: Repeat this layering process two more times. Ensure to end with a topping of mozzarella cheese for a golden brown finish.
6. Bake: Cover the lasagna tightly with aluminum foil, then bake in preheated oven for 25 minutes. Uncover and continue baking until bubbly and golden on top, about another 15-20 minutes. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving.

Cooking Time & Servings

Preparation time: About 30 minutes (not including cooking the noodles) Cooking time in oven: Approximately 45 minutes Total time: Around an hour and a half Servings: Serves 6-8 people comfortably

Tips for Success

• Ensure that your béchamel sauce is smooth; it adds great flavor to the dish.
• For even better texture, cook the vegetables until slightly soft before assembling them into layers.
• Use fresh spinach and zucchini for a fresher taste compared to frozen ones. However, if you are using frozen veggies, make sure they are thawed first.

Variations & Substitutions

If you want to vary the flavors or cater better to your dietary preferences:

• Replace some of the mozzarella with vegan cheese for a dairy-free version.
• Increase the proportion of vegetables like spinach and zucchini if you prefer more greens in your meal.

Vegetarian lasagna is not only tasty but also packed with essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for vegetarians or those aiming to reduce meat consumption. By following this simple yet delightful recipe, you can enjoy a wholesome dinner that will satisfy everyone at the table!