Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe: A Feast for the Whole Family

Looking to add a comforting, delicious dish to your menu? Try making vegetarian lasagna! This classic Italian pasta bake is beloved by many and can be customized in numerous ways. Today, we’re diving into an easy-to-follow recipe that makes enough servings for at least four people.

This vegetarian lasagna is packed with hearty flavors and rich textures. The main ingredients include pasta sheets, a blend of cheeses such as mozzarella and Parmesan, a variety of vegetables like zucchini and spinach, and a savory tomato sauce base. If you’re new to cooking this dish or looking for a way to add an extra layer of flavor, consider experimenting with herbs like basil or oregano.

Ingredients

• Pasta sheets (about 10-12 sheets)
• Tomato sauce: 2 cups
• Mozzarella cheese: 3 cups
• Cheese blend for topping: 1 cup
• Zucchini: 2 medium-sized pieces, thinly sliced
• Spinach: 4-5 cups, chopped
• Eggs: 3 large eggs
• Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup, grated (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for drizzling

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cook the Pasta Sheets: If you’re using fresh pasta sheets, lightly boil them until they are slightly al dente. Drain and set aside. For dried lasagna noodles, follow package instructions but ensure they soften just enough when cooked.
3. Mix the Tomato Sauce: In a large bowl, mix your tomato sauce with finely chopped garlic for an extra punch of flavor. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Cook the Spinach: Heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the spinach leaves to wilt them down until they are soft and tender. This should take only a few minutes; once done, set aside and drain any excess moisture using paper towels.
5. Slice the Zucchini: Using a mandoline or knife, slice the zucchini into thin strips for even cooking when layered in your lasagna.
6. Assemble the Lasagna: On the bottom of a large baking dish (preferably 9x13 inches), spread a thin layer of tomato sauce. Layer one-third of the cooked pasta sheets over it, followed by half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese blend, all the spinach, zucchini slices, and then another third of the tomato sauce.
7. Repeat Layers: Repeat this process two more times to have three layers in total. Ensure each layer is topped with a generous amount of cheese and some additional tomato sauce on top for a flavorful finish.
8. Bake: Place your assembled lasagna into the preheated oven and bake it for about 25-30 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Check occasionally towards the end to ensure it’s not burning.
9. Serve: Once done, let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing into portions. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.

Cooking Time and Servings

This recipe takes approximately 60 minutes to prepare from start to finish, including baking time. It serves four people comfortably as a main course or can be used as part of a larger meal spread. For a more substantial dish, consider adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or even a meaty alternative like ground tofu.

Variations and Additions:

• Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle some fresh Parmesan over the lasagna for added richness.
• Cheese Blends: You can choose different types of cheese blends to suit your preferences, such as cheddar or a blend with herbs and spices like garlic and rosemary.
• Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil, oregano, or parsley for extra freshness. This adds not only flavor but also visual appeal when garnished on top of the finished lasagna.

Lasagna is a versatile dish that can be prepared in advance and enjoyed at any time. It’s perfect for casual family meals, potlucks, or dinner parties. With this simple recipe, you’re sure to impress your guests with its comforting taste and satisfying texture!