Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe: A Delightful Comfort Food Meal

For those looking to enjoy a heartwarming and comforting meal, vegetarian lasagna is an excellent choice. This beloved dish combines layers of pasta, a creamy sauce, and a variety of vegetables, creating a flavor profile that satisfies both the taste buds and soul. Whether you're hosting family or friends for dinner, or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this vegetarian lasagna recipe will not disappoint.

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

• 9 lasagna noodles (uncooked)
• 4 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for topping
• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, divided use
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper, divided use
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 4 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cans (15 ounces each) of crushed tomatoes

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, half of the grated Parmesan (1/4 cup), three-quarters of the eggs, one teaspoon salt, three-quarters of the black pepper, oregano, and basil. This mixture will be used as the filling for the lasagna.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add mixed vegetables and sauté until they are slightly browned but not overly cooked. Set aside to cool slightly.

4. Spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes on the bottom of your lasagna dish or pan. Layer one-third of the cooked noodles over this base, followed by half of the ricotta mixture (2 cups), and then half of the sautéed vegetables.

5. Repeat the process: spread another third of the crushed tomatoes, add a layer of noodles, followed by the remaining ricotta mixture, and top with the second half of the sautéed vegetables. Repeat this sequence one more time for your final layers.

6. Cover the lasagna with the remaining crushed tomatoes and sprinkle on 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the dish or pan tightly and bake it in the preheated oven at 375°F for about 45 minutes, until the top is golden brown.

7. Remove from oven; let cool slightly before slicing into portions. Sprinkle with additional Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• If you prefer a lighter option, consider using spinach or kale instead of the mixed vegetables for more nutritional benefits.

• For extra flavor, try adding some garlic powder or red pepper flakes to your tomato sauce base.

• To make this dish suitable for dairy-free diets, you could use a non-dairy cheese alternative and omit the mozzarella. Ensure that any other cheeses used are also appropriate for your dietary needs.

Vegetarian lasagna is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it by incorporating different types of vegetables or even adding some protein options such as tofu or tempeh if you prefer to have a non-vegetarian option. It's a wonderful dish that caters well to various dietary preferences and restrictions, ensuring everyone at your table will enjoy the meal.

The rich taste and creamy texture of this dish make it perfect for gatherings where sharing food is central, yet it remains equally appealing when enjoyed alone as a comforting indulgence. The combination of flavors and textures in every bite makes vegetarian lasagna an iconic comfort food that can be cherished by all ages and dietary preferences.