Vegetable Lasagna

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Vegetable lasagna is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together layers of tender pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta cheese, and a medley of colorful vegetables. Perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish not only caters to vegetarians but also delights anyone looking for a nutritious and flavorful meal. This recipe will guide you through creating a mouth-watering vegetable lasagna that is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

For the Vegetable Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 yellow squash, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup spinach, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

For the Ricotta Mixture:

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Assembly:

  • 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
  • 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetable Filling

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the mushrooms, zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in the spinach, and cook until wilted.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper.
  2. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly incorporated. Set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  3. Place three lasagna noodles over the sauce, overlapping slightly.
  4. Spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.
  5. Add 1/3 of the vegetable filling over the ricotta mixture.
  6. Sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the vegetables.
  7. Repeat the layers two more times: marinara sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, vegetable filling, and mozzarella cheese.
  8. Finish with a final layer of marinara sauce and sprinkle the top with the remaining mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bake the Lasagna

  1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil.
  2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
  3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  4. Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

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Vegetable lasagna is a versatile and nutritious dish that showcases the flavors and textures of fresh vegetables, balanced with rich cheeses and hearty pasta. This recipe ensures a delicious and crowd-pleasing meal, perfect for any occasion. By following these steps, you’ll create a lasagna that is not only comforting and satisfying but also a beautiful representation of wholesome vegetarian cooking. Enjoy your homemade vegetable lasagna with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete, delightful meal.

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