Introduction
Veggie lasagne is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines layers of pasta, hearty vegetables, and creamy cheese. This recipe, perfect for both vegetarians and pasta lovers alike, is designed to be colorful and packed with flavor. It’s an ideal choice for a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Pasta sheets
– 12 sheets, fresh or dried
Spinach
– 300g, fresh
Mushrooms
– 250g, sliced
Zucchini
– 1, sliced
Bell pepper
– 1, diced
Carrot
– 2, peeled and grated
Onion
– 1, finely chopped
Garlic
– 2 cloves, minced
Passata
– 700ml
Ricotta cheese
– 250g
Mozzarella cheese
– 200g, grated
Parmesan cheese
– 50g, grated
Olive oil
– 2 tablespoons
Salt and pepper
– to taste
Fresh basil
– a handful, chopped (optional)
Prep Time
Preparation of this veggie lasagne takes approximately 30 minutes. This includes prepping the vegetables and making the filling layer. It’s important to chop and slice the vegetables in advance to make the assembly process smoother.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 6
This delicious veggie lasagne can easily be enjoyed by the whole family, providing a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Seasonal Veggies
Chop a selection of seasonal vegetables such as courgettes, peppers, and aubergine into small pieces. Aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
Cook the Vegetables
In a large frying pan over medium heat, add olive oil and then the chopped vegetables. Sauté until they are softened and starting to brown. This should take around 10 minutes.
Add Garlic and Herbs
Finely chop garlic and add it to the pan with dried oregano and any other preferred herbs. Stir well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Pour canned chopped tomatoes into the pan, add salt, and stir everything together. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally until it has thickened.
Cook the Pasta Sheets
In a separate pot, cook the lasagna sheets according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Layer the Lasagne
In a baking dish, spread a layer of the vegetable tomato sauce at the bottom. Add a layer of the cooked pasta sheets, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese, and repeat the process until the dish is full, finishing with pasta on top.
Add the Cheese Topping
Sprinkle grated cheese generously over the top layer and add a sprinkle of black pepper and a drizzle of olive oil.
Bake the Lasagne
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F) and place the assembled lasagne in the oven. Bake for about 30-40 minutes until it is golden and bubbling.
Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, allow the lasagne to rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to use any seasonal vegetables you prefer or have on hand. Spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli also work well in this dish.
Making Ahead
This lasagne can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge. It can also be frozen before baking for a convenient meal later.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagne with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftover lasagne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Cook techniques
Roasting Vegetables
Roasting vegetables enhances their natural sweetness and flavors. To roast, toss chopped vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking tray and cook in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized.
Making Béchamel Sauce
Béchamel, a creamy white sauce, is made by whisking together flour and butter to create a roux, then gradually adding milk while stirring until thickened. This sauce adds richness to the lasagne.
Layering
Layering is essential for a well-constructed lasagne. Alternate between pasta sheets, filling, and béchamel to create distinct layers. This technique ensures even cooking and flavor distribution.
Grating Cheese
Grating cheese allows it to melt evenly and blend into the dish. Use a coarse grater for quicker melting and to create a better texture in your lasagne.
Baking
Baking is the final step in cooking lasagne. Cover the dish with foil initially to trap moisture, then remove it later to allow the top to crisp and become golden brown.
FAQ
Can I use different vegetables in the lasagne?
Yes, you can substitute any vegetables you like or have on hand, as long as they are suitable for baking.
How can I make this lasagne gluten-free?
You can use gluten-free pasta sheets or substitute them with thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini or eggplant.
Can I prepare the lasagne ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagne ahead of time and store it in the fridge until you are ready to bake it.
What type of cheese is best for lasagne?
Ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan are traditional choices, but you can mix in any cheese you enjoy for different flavors.
How long should I bake the lasagne?
Bake the lasagne for about 30-40 minutes, or until it is bubbling and the top is golden brown.
Conclusion
This veggie lasagne is a delightful and hearty dish that is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. Its layers of rich vegetables, creamy béchamel, and cheesy goodness offer a fantastic alternative to traditional meat lasagnes, making it perfect for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Enjoying this dish can be a wonderful way to explore the flavors and textures of seasonal produce, ensuring a wholesome meal for the whole family.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Stir-Fry
A quick and colorful dish that pairs well with rice or noodles, featuring your favorite seasonal vegetables and a light soy sauce dressing.
Caprese Salad
A fresh salad made with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with balsamic reduced vinegar – perfect as a side dish to complement the lasagne.
Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and comforting risotto made with arborio rice, fresh mushrooms, and parmesan cheese, offering a rich and flavorful alternative or side to the lasagne.
Roasted Vegetable Medley
A blend of seasonal vegetables roasted to perfection with olive oil and herbs, providing a tasty accompaniment to any pasta dish.
Garlic Bread
A classic side dish that pairs beautifully with pasta; toasted bread infused with garlic butter and parsley makes for a perfect addition to your meal.
Pesto Pasta Salad
A chilled pasta salad tossed with vibrant pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives, ideal for a lighter meal or as a refreshing side dish.
Stuffed Peppers
Colorful bell peppers filled with a mixture of grains, beans, and spices, baked until tender. They are healthy and visually appealing options alongside a hearty lasagne.