Description
Creamy white sauce zucchini & spinach lasagna brings Mediterranean comfort straight to your dinner table. Rich layers of tender vegetables and silky sauce promise a delightful culinary experience you’ll savor with every delectable bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 medium zucchinis, thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Herbs:
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh basil for garnish
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups bechamel sauce
Bechamel Sauce Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to a toasty 375F (190C), creating the perfect environment for a bubbling, golden lasagna.
- If using traditional pasta sheets, immerse them in boiling water until tender, then carefully drain and set aside for layering.
- Transform zucchini and spinach into a flavor-packed medley by sautéing in olive oil. Infuse with minced garlic, and season with a harmonious blend of salt, pepper, and Italian herbs until vegetables become tender and aromatic.
- Craft a creamy ricotta base by whisking together ricotta cheese, a single egg, and a sprinkle of Parmesan, creating a smooth, rich binding for the layers.
- Construct the lasagna with architectural precision: begin with a velvety bechamel sauce foundation, then alternate between delicate pasta sheets or zucchini ribbons, the herbed ricotta mixture, sautéed vegetables, additional bechamel, and a generous blanket of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, ensuring a symphony of textures and flavors.
- Shield the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes, allowing the ingredients to meld together. Uncover and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top transforms into a golden, crispy masterpiece with bubbling edges.
- Allow the lasagna to rest and settle for 10 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil leaves. Slice and serve this warm, comforting dish that promises a delightful culinary experience.
Notes
- Swap zucchini noodles for traditional pasta to create a lower-carb, gluten-free version that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for health-conscious eaters.
- Ensure vegetables are well-drained after sautéing to prevent excess moisture from making the lasagna soggy and compromising the dish’s texture.
- Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier, more luxurious melting quality that elevates the overall richness of the lasagna.
- Consider adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers to introduce extra depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbohydrates: 14 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 17 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg