Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe
Vegetarian Lasagna is a delicious, comforting dish made with layers of fresh vegetables, creamy ricotta, and rich tomato sauce. It is perfect for a family dinner or potluck.
Hello, friend! Get ready to savor the comforting flavors of this hearty Vegetarian Lasagna. We’re ditching the meat and packing in layers of fresh vegetables, creamy ricotta cheese, and a rich, homemade tomato sauce.
This lasagna is a symphony of flavors and textures, perfect for a satisfying meal that will leave you feeling happy and nourished.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready to create a veggie-filled masterpiece!
Utensils You Need:
Gather these tools and let’s get cooking:
- Large pot
- Colander
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon
The Recipe
Vegetarian Lasagna
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius).
- Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. Drain and rinse with cold water.
- While the noodles are cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and chopped bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes more.
- Add chopped zucchini and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, and Parmesan cheese.
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.
- Top with a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture, a layer of vegetables, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat layers, ending with a layer of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- You can use a variety of vegetables in this lasagna, such as spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant.
- Feel free to use your favorite marinara sauce instead of making your own.
- For a richer flavor, you can add a layer of béchamel sauce (white sauce) to the lasagna.
- If you don’t have lasagna noodles, you can use no-boil lasagna noodles or regular pasta sheets.
Alternative Ingredients:
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, don’t worry! You can swap them out for the alternatives below:
Ingredient | Alternative |
Ricotta cheese | Cottage cheese or tofu ricotta |
Parmesan cheese | Nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan cheese |
Mozzarella cheese | Any type of cheese that melts well |
Lasagna noodles | Zucchini or eggplant slices |
What to Serve with Vegetarian Lasagna:
You can pair this delicious Vegetarian Lasagna with the following:
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks.
- A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze the unbaked lasagna for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can use vegan substitutes for ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese. You can also use a vegan tomato sauce or make your own using plant-based ingredients.
Can I add more vegetables to the lasagna?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you like, such as spinach, mushrooms, or eggplant.
How do I prevent the lasagna noodles from drying out?
Make sure to use enough sauce and cheese to cover the noodles. You can also add a splash of water or vegetable broth to the dish before baking.
How do I store leftover lasagna?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.