Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe: A Perfect Comfort Food

Vegetarian lasagna is a classic dish that has been a favorite for decades. Its hearty layers of pasta, creamy sauce, and savory vegetables make it an ideal meal for family dinners or cozy movie nights. This recipe yields 6 servings and takes approximately 2 hours to prepare.

Serve this delicious lasagna with a side salad and garlic breadsticks for a complete feast. It is perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks, as the flavors can be adjusted according to your taste preferences. With its rich texture and burst of flavors, this lasagna will become a staple in your home kitchen.

Ingredients

• 16 no-boil lasagna noodles (cut into thirds if preferred)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3 large eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 small jar of your favorite pasta sauce, or 1 cup of homemade marinara
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• A generous handful of fresh basil and oregano
• Fresh spinach leaves for layering (about 6 cups)
• 4 medium zucchini, sliced in half lengthwise and then cut into matchsticks
• Mozzarella balls (optional garnish)

Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook the no-boil lasagna noodles until they are soft but still retain some bite. Drain well and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, eggs, salt, pepper, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. This mixture will be used for the filling between each layer of pasta.
3. For the sauce, in a large skillet over medium heat, combine crushed tomatoes, pasta sauce or marinara, minced garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and fresh herbs. Simmer gently until well-combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
4. To assemble, spread about 1 cup of sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch baking dish. Layer three noodles over this sauce layer.
5. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Then cover with half of the remaining sauce, followed by two-thirds of the spinach and zucchini slices. Sprinkle another third of mozzarella cheese over that.
6. Repeat these layers two more times. Ensure each layer has enough sauce between the ingredients so it can bake properly.
7. Cover the top layer with remaining noodles. Spread the remaining sauce over this top noodle layer, and sprinkle with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
8. Bake for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through. Let it rest at room temperature for a few minutes before slicing into portions. Garnish each slice with mozzarella balls if desired.

Tips & Variations

• To enhance the flavor, add more spices like rosemary or thyme to taste.
• If you prefer a lighter option, omit some of the cheese and use less sauce. You can also increase the amount of vegetables for added nutrition.
• For extra texture, sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top before baking for about 5 minutes until golden brown.

Cooking time: Preparation: 1 hour, Baking: 45-60 minutes. Servings: This recipe serves 6 people.

Conclusion

Vegetarian lasagna is a versatile and comforting dish that can be customized to suit various tastes. It's easy to prepare, deliciously satisfying, and perfect for any season. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a homemade meal after a busy day, this recipe offers the perfect balance of simplicity and flavor.

Try experimenting with different herbs, vegetables, and cheeses to create your own version of this iconic dish. Share your creations on social media using the hashtag #VegetarianLasagna and inspire others in their cooking journeys!