Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe (Serves 6-8)
INGREDIENTS:
For the Vegetables:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium yellow squash, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
For the Ricotta Layer:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tsp dried)
For Assembly:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté zucchini, squash, red bell pepper, and mushrooms for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Add the chopped spinach and minced garlic, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate saucepan, warm the marinara sauce and stir in basil and oregano.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Layer 3 cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
- Add 1/3 of the sautéed vegetables, followed by 1/3 of the marinara sauce, and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella on top.
- Repeat this process for 2 more layers.
- Finish with a layer of noodles, marinara sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the dish with foil (to prevent cheese from burning) and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Let It Rest:
- Allow the lasagna to cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
This Vegetarian Lasagna is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, and it freezes beautifully for later! Pair it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete feast. Enjoy! 🌿🍅🧀