Hearty Vegetable Lasagna

Hearty Vegetable Lasagna

This Hearty Vegetable Lasagna is a celebration of vibrant, seasonal vegetables layered within sheets of tender pasta, enveloped in a creamy ricotta mixture and topped with a rich marinara sauce. Each bite is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a comforting dish perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners. Lasagna has its roots in ancient Greece, where layers of pasta were known as 'laganon.' Over the centuries, this dish has evolved into the beloved Italian classic we know today, showcasing the beauty of fresh ingredients.

Servings: 8

Ingredients

  • Lasagna noodles (12 sheets (no-boil or regular))
  • Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Onion (1, diced)
  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  • Red bell pepper (1, diced)
  • Yellow squash (1, diced)
  • Zucchini (1, diced)
  • Spinach (4 cups, fresh, chopped)
  • Ricotta cheese (15 ounces)
  • Egg (1)
  • Dried oregano (1 teaspoon)
  • Salt (1 teaspoon)
  • Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Marinara sauce (4 cups (store-bought or homemade))
  • Mozzarella cheese (2 cups, shredded)
  • Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to package instructions, drain, and set aside. If using no-boil noodles, skip this step.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the diced zucchini, yellow squash, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for approximately 8 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Remove the skillet from heat.
  6. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well blended.
  7. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  8. Layer 4 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the vegetable mixture, and sprinkle with 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  9. Repeat the layering process with another 4 lasagna noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining vegetable mixture, and another cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
  10. Top with the final 4 lasagna noodles and spread the remaining marinara sauce over the noodles.
  11. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
  12. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  13. Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy!

Dietary Information

Servings: 8 • Dish Type: Main Course • Prep Time: 30 minutes • Cook Time: 45 minutes • Calories: 410 • Fat: 18g • Carbs: 46g • Protein: 22g • Sodium: 650mg • Sugar: 6g