Vegetable lasagna is one of the world's most popular comfort foods, and it's easy to see why. This Italian dish is a combination of delicious flavors and textures, offering a hearty embrace of juicy goodness and creamy cheese. Whether you're vegetarian or looking for a tasty way to add more vegetables to your diet, this veggie lasagna recipe is sure to be a hit.This dish is a delicious combination of tender pasta, creamy tomato sauce, and roasted vegetables. It is a delicious combination of healthy ingredients that is sure to satisfy any appetite. This dish is a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings and is a great weeknight meal that will leave you with plenty of leftovers for the next day.
In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and garlic, and saute until softened.
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Simmer for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Set aside.
Prepare the Vegetable Filling:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the diced zucchini, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, and mushrooms.
Saute until the vegetables are tender.
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted.
Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the flour to create a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce thickens.
Season with salt and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside.
Assemble the Lasagna:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
Layer with half of the sautéed vegetables, half of the béchamel sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Repeat the layers.
Top with the remaining three lasagna noodles, tomato sauce, and a generous amount of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake and Serve:
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the lasagna is bubbling and the cheese is golden.
Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve your Vegetable Lasagna warm.
Notes
1. Use Oven-Ready Lasagna Noodles: To save time and simplify the process, consider using oven-ready lasagna noodles. They don't require pre-boiling and will cook perfectly while baking.2. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to customize the vegetable filling to your liking. You can add or substitute vegetables like eggplant, broccoli, carrots, or artichoke hearts for variety.3. Opt for Fresh Spinach: While frozen spinach works in a pinch, fresh spinach leaves bring a brighter flavor and better texture to the dish. If using frozen, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly.4. Layering Technique: Start and finish with a layer of tomato sauce to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. This also gives the top a nice tomatoey finish.5. Make Ahead: Vegetable Lasagna is an excellent make-ahead dish. You can assemble it and refrigerate it a day ahead, then bake it when you're ready to serve. Just allow for a little extra baking time if it's straight from the refrigerator.6. Rest Before Serving: After baking, let the lasagna rest for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve and preventing a too-runny lasagna.7. Adjust Cheese: If you're watching your calorie intake, you can reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe. Alternatively, consider using part-skim or low-fat mozzarella for a lighter option.8. Freeze for Later: Vegetable Lasagna freezes well. Cut it into portions, wrap them in foil, and freeze them for convenient future meals. To reheat, simply bake from frozen until heated through.9. Fresh Herbs: Garnish with fresh basil or parsley just before serving. These herbs add a burst of freshness and a lovely aroma to the dish.10. Pairing: Serve your Vegetable Lasagna with a side salad and some crusty garlic bread for a well-rounded meal.With these recipe notes in mind, you'll be well-prepared to create a delicious and satisfying Vegetable Lasagna that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy your homemade Italian comfort food!