Vegetarian Lasagna with Spinach and Ricotta

Prep Time: 30 min	Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 min	Serving Size: 6

Introduction

Treat your family and friends to a delightful and hearty Vegetarian Lasagna with Spinach and Ricotta, a dish that beautifully showcases the flavors and textures of Italy's finest ingredients. Packed with layers of tender lasagna noodles, a vibrant spinach and ricotta filling, and a rich tomato sauce, this delectable meal promises to be the star of any gathering or a comforting weeknight dinner.

Health Benefits

1. Protein-rich: Ricotta cheese provides a significant protein source, essential for muscle repair and overall health.

   
   

2. Good Source of Iron: Spinach is rich in iron, promoting healthy red blood cell production and boosting energy levels.

   
   

3. High in Calcium: The combination of ricotta cheese and spinach offers a good source of calcium, which supports bone health and muscle function.

   
   

Ingredients

• 1 box oven-ready lasagna noodles

• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

• 1 (15 oz) container ricotta cheese

• 1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 1 tbsp dried oregano

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese for topping

  
  

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).

   
   

2. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, spinach, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.

   
   

3. Spread a thin layer of crushed tomatoes on the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish.

   
   

4. Layer lasagna noodles, followed by half of the spinach-ricotta mixture, another layer of noodles, and the remaining spinach-ricotta mixture.

   
   

5. Top with a final layer of noodles and remaining crushed tomatoes.

   
   

6. If desired, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese on top.

   
   

7. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.

   
   

8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.

   
   

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with a side of crusty Italian bread and a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Tips

• To save time, use oven-ready lasagna noodles, which don't require pre-boiling.

  
  

• For a gluten-free option, replace the lasagna noodles with thinly sliced zucchini or gluten-free lasagna sheets.

  
  

Nutritional Facts (per serving, without optional cheese toppings)

Calories	Protein	Fat	Carbs	Fiber	Net Carbs
250 Kcals	15g	10g	25g	5g	20g