Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that is loved by everyone, but most lasagna recipes are loaded with meat and cheese, making it a little too heavy for some people. That’s where vegetable lasagna comes in! This delicious and healthy recipe is perfect for those who want to enjoy the comforting flavors of lasagna without all the extra calories.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions.
- In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and black pepper.
- In a large skillet, cook spinach, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, mushrooms, onion, green bell pepper, and garlic over medium heat until vegetables are tender.
- Spread 1/2 cup of vegetable mixture in bottom of 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Arrange 3 cooked lasagna noodles over sauce.
- Spread half of ricotta cheese mixture over noodles.
- Top with half of remaining vegetable mixture and 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layering of lasagna noodles, ricotta cheese mixture, vegetable mixture, and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options
To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the Parmesan cheese and use vegan cheese instead of mozzarella cheese. To make it vegan, use vegan lasagna noodles and tofu instead of ricotta cheese.
Other Variations
This recipe is very versatile and you can add or substitute any vegetables you like. Some delicious options include zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers. You can also add some spices to the vegetable mixture, such as oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes, to give it a little more flavor.
Conclusion
This vegetable lasagna recipe is a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional lasagna. It’s easy to make and perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Give it a try and enjoy the comforting flavors of lasagna without all the guilt!
FAQ
Can I use any vegetables for the vegetable lasagna?
Yes, you can use any vegetables you like or have on hand. Some popular choices include zucchini, eggplant, spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions.
Do I need to cook the vegetables before layering them in the lasagna?
It’s a good idea to cook the vegetables before layering them in the lasagna. This will ensure that they are tender and fully cooked by the time the lasagna is finished baking.
Can I make the vegetable lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the lasagna ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. If you’re storing it in the refrigerator, be sure to cook it within 2-3 days. If you’re storing it in the freezer, it can last for up to 3 months.
Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe?
Yes, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles for this recipe. They are a convenient option because they don’t need to be cooked beforehand.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, you can use a different type of cheese instead of ricotta. Some good options include cottage cheese, feta cheese, or goat cheese.
Can I make the vegetable lasagna gluten-free?
Yes, you can make the vegetable lasagna gluten-free by using gluten-free lasagna noodles. Be sure to check the labels on all of the other ingredients to make sure they are also gluten-free.
How long should I let the lasagna cool before serving?
It’s a good idea to let the lasagna cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. This will make it easier to slice and serve.
Can I add meat to the vegetable lasagna?
Yes, you can add meat to the vegetable lasagna if you like. Ground beef or turkey are popular options, but you could also use Italian sausage or diced chicken.
Can I use a different type of sauce instead of marinara?
Yes, you can use a different type of sauce instead of marinara. Alfredo sauce, pesto, or a creamy tomato sauce would all be delicious options.
How long should I bake the lasagna for?
Bake the lasagna uncovered for 35-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
