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Vegetarian lasagna

vegetarian lasagna

Vegetarian lasagna with fresh veggies and creamy ricotta delivers flavor, lightness and comfort. An easy and nutritious family favorite for any day.
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Total Time 1 hour 1 minute
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 285
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 9 units lasagna noodles (whole wheat if desired) uncooked
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 unit yellow onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 unit zucchini diced, about 1 cup
  • 1 unit carrot grated
  • 1 cup fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 1 unit red bell pepper diced
  • 2 cups tomato sauce homemade or low-sodium store-bought
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese or cottage cheese for a lighter option
  • 1 cup light mozzarella cheese shredded
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil chopped (optional)
  • 0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
  2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic and sauté for 2 minutes, until fragrant.
  4. Add the zucchini, carrots, spinach, and red bell pepper. Cook, stirring often, for 5 minutes until vegetables are softened.
  5. Add the tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat.
  6. In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese and fresh basil until creamy.
  7. Spread a thin layer of vegetable-tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish (24x18cm or similar).
  8. Layer lasagna noodles over the sauce, then spread 1/3 of the ricotta mixture, 1/3 of the vegetable sauce, and sprinkle some mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and cheeses on top.
  9. Optionally, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
  10. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until golden and bubbling.
  11. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Notes

Vegetarian lasagna has become a favorite in many homes for its remarkable versatility and ability to please both vegetarians and devoted meat lovers. This lasagna brings together vibrant vegetables, creamy ricotta, and a bubbling layer of cheese—perfect for weeknight dinners or impressive gatherings.
Flexibility is key: If you don't have zucchini or red bell peppers on hand, try eggplant, mushrooms, or even thin slices of butternut squash. Opt for baby kale or arugula instead of spinach for a different green boost. For vegan guests, replace ricotta with a plant-based cheese spread and swap mozzarella for your preferred vegan cheese.

Smart shortcuts and simple tricks

No-boil lasagna noodles can save time—just make sure there's enough sauce to hydrate them thoroughly. Sautéing the vegetables before layering prevents excess water in your finished lasagna and enhances flavor. If your ricotta or cottage cheese seems too runny, strain it with a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to achieve a creamier consistency.

Perfect your technique

Layering is your friend! Start and end with sauce to keep your noodles tender and prevent dry corners. Cover your lasagna with foil for most of the bake; this traps steam and ensures the center cooks evenly. Finishing with a short uncovered bake gives you that irresistible golden top—watch closely to avoid over-browning.

Serving and pairing suggestions

Serve this vegetarian lasagna with a fresh salad of mixed greens, a drizzle of lemon vinaigrette, and rustic garlic bread. For special occasions, add a side of roasted seasonal vegetables. Want to get ahead? Assemble your lasagna the night before, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve—flavors meld beautifully overnight.
With these tips, you’ll create a lasagna that’s consistently creamy, flavorful, and a crowd-pleaser every time!