Heavenly Spinach and Ricotta Lasagne: A Fresh Take on a Classic Dish

Lasagne is a beloved classic, but sometimes you want to switch things up and try something new yet equally satisfying. Enter our Spinach and Ricotta Lasagne, a vegetarian delight that’s rich in flavor and texture. This dish combines the creamy goodness of ricotta cheese, the earthiness of spinach, and the satisfying layers of pasta and marinara sauce. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a meatless meal option, this lasagne is sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to create this comforting and delicious meal.

Recipe:

Ingredients:

• For the lasagne:

  • 12 lasagne noodles
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• For the spinach and ricotta filling:

  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 package frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)

Directions:

1. Preheat Oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook Lasagne Noodles:

   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagne noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare Spinach and Ricotta Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix until well combined.
   • In a skillet, sauté the chopped fresh spinach with minced garlic until wilted (if using fresh spinach). If using frozen spinach, ensure it is thoroughly drained. Add the spinach to the cheese mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg if using. Mix well.

4. Assemble the Lasagne:

   • Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
   • Place a layer of lasagne noodles over the sauce.
   • Spread half of the spinach and ricotta mixture over the noodles.
   • Add another layer of noodles, followed by marinara sauce, then the remaining spinach and ricotta mixture.
   • Top with the final layer of noodles and spread the remaining marinara sauce over the top. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the sauce.

5. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagne is heated through.

6. Serve:

   • Allow the lasagne to cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Preparation Time:

Preparation takes about 30 minutes, and baking time is approximately 40 minutes.

Servings:

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

FAQs:

• Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the ricotta mixture.

• Can I make this lasagne ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the lasagne ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

• What other cheeses can I use? You can add or substitute cheeses like fontina, provolone, or even a bit of blue cheese for a different flavor profile.

• Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers can be sautéed and added to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

• How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagne is a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the classic comfort of lasagne while incorporating more vegetables into your meal. The creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and gooey mozzarella create a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that will make this dish a favorite in your household. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or simply craving a hearty vegetarian meal, this lasagne is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious results!