Classic Vegetarian Lasagna recipe

Layers of Flavor, Love, and Comfort

INTRODUCTION: Experience the ultimate comfort food with a plant-based twist - Classic Vegetarian Lasagna, a timeless Italian masterpiece that warms the heart and satisfies the soul. This beloved recipe layers tender pasta with a vibrant medley of sautéed vegetables, rich ricotta cheese, and a blend of creamy mozzarella and parmesan, creating a harmonious balance of flavors, textures, and colors. A true crowd-pleaser, this classic vegetarian lasagna is perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or cozy nights in, offering a deliciously satisfying taste of Italy's rich culinary heritage.

Ingredients:

- 8-10 lasagna noodles

- 2 cups (475ml) marinara sauce

- 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese

- 1 cup (115g) shredded mozzarella cheese

- 1 cup (115g) grated Parmesan cheese

- 1 cup (150g) frozen spinach, thawed and drained

- 1 cup (150g) sliced mushrooms

- 1 cup (150g) sliced bell peppers

- 1 cup (150g) sliced zucchini

- 1 small onion, chopped (100g)

- 2 cloves garlic, minced (6g)

- 1 cup (250g) shredded vegetarian mozzarella cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.

3. In a medium bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

4. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, bell peppers, zucchini, onion, and garlic until tender.

5. In a 9x13-inch baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce. Arrange 4 lasagna noodles on top.

6. Spread half of the ricotta mixture, followed by half of the sautéed vegetables, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese.

7. Repeat the layers: marinara sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, vegetables, and mozzarella cheese.

8. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and optional vegetarian mozzarella cheese.

9. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes.

10. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Note: You can customize the recipe by adding or substituting different vegetables, using different types of cheese, or adding protein sources like tofu or tempeh.

Here is an approximate calorie chart for a serving of Vegetarian Lasagna (assuming 8-10 servings total):

Per serving (approx. 350g):

- Calories: 400-450

- Protein: 25-30g

- Fat: 20-25g

    - Saturated fat: 10-12g

- Carbohydrates: 35-40g

    - Fiber: 6-8g

- Cholesterol: 40-50mg

- Sodium: 600-700mg

Breakdown:

- Lasagna noodles (120g): 150-170 calories

- Marinara sauce (250ml): 100-120 calories

- Ricotta cheese (125g): 150-170 calories

- Mozzarella cheese (115g): 120-140 calories

- Parmesan cheese (50g): 100-120 calories

- Spinach (50g): negligible calories

- Mushrooms (50g): negligible calories

- Bell peppers (50g): negligible calories

- Zucchini (50g): negligible calories

- Onion (50g): negligible calories

- Garlic (6g): negligible calories

- Vegetarian mozzarella cheese (optional, 125g): 120-140 calories

Please note that this is an estimate, as exact values depend on specific ingredient brands and measurements. Additionally, Vegetarian Lasagna can vary in portion sizes and ingredients, affecting calorie counts. This chart serves as an approximate guide.

Keep in mind that serving sizes and calorie counts can vary depending on the specific recipe and cooking methods used.