Ingredients
Method
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In the meantime, cook your whole wheat lasagna noodles according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
- Veggies Galore: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add in your sliced zucchini and diced red bell pepper. Sauté until they’re slightly tender – usually about 5 minutes.
- Spinach Time: Toss in the chopped spinach to the pan and continue cooking until it’s wilted. This should take around 3 minutes.
- Cheesy Blend: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with half of the chopped basil leaves. Mix well, adding a pinch of salt and pepper for flavor.
- Layering Begins: Grab a baking dish and spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce. Spread a portion of the ricotta mix on the noodles, followed by a layer of the sautéed veggies.
- Repeat: Continue layering in the same sequence: sauce, noodles, ricotta mix, and veggies. Finish with a layer of noodles on top.
- Final Touch: Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the top layer of noodles. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the cheese turns a lovely golden brown.
- Rest & Serve: Once out of the oven, let your Healthy Lasagna sit for about 10 minutes. This helps in settling the layers. Slice and serve garnished with the remaining fresh basil.
Notes
Noodle Notes: Always ensure the noodles are just ‘al dente’ when pre-cooking. They will cook further when baking.
Cheese Choice: You can always substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor.
Veggie Variety: Feel free to toss in some mushrooms or eggplant slices for an added veggie punch.
Freeze Friendly: If you’re cooking for just yourself or another, this Healthy Lasagna freezes well! Just remember to cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
Cheese Choice: You can always substitute ricotta with cottage cheese for a different texture and flavor.
Veggie Variety: Feel free to toss in some mushrooms or eggplant slices for an added veggie punch.
Freeze Friendly: If you’re cooking for just yourself or another, this Healthy Lasagna freezes well! Just remember to cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
- Salad Companion: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna.
- Garlic Goodness: Toasted whole wheat garlic bread can be a great side.
- Wine Alternatives: Consider a refreshing iced herbal tea or sparkling water with a lemon wedge.
