Introduction
Spinach Lasagna stands as a classic and comforting dish that beautifully blends the heartiness of lasagna with the vibrant flavors of spinach. Its rich, layered profile offers a delightful contrast between tender noodles, creamy filling, and savory cheeses. As a versatile recipe, it caters to both vegan preferences (with plant-based substitutes) and traditional Italian palates alike.
Tips for this Recipe
For the perfect Spinach Lasagna, ensure your oven is preheated to 375°F (190°C). When preparing the spinach filling, it’s crucial to cook down the frozen spinach until dry to prevent excess moisture. Additionally, layering ingredients evenly ensures each bite has a balanced mix of flavors and textures.
Why you will love this recipe
Spinach Lasagna captivates with its comforting taste that reminds one of traditional family meals. Its nutritious profile, featuring vegetables and lean proteins, makes it a healthier alternative to conventional lasagnas. Plus, the dish’s rich flavors satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 large onions (2 white, 2 red, 2 yellow), halved and thinly sliced
- 6 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups lowfat chicken or vegetable stock
- 6 scallions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 2 teaspoons salt (preferably sea salt), plus more to season
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, plus more to season
- 9 whole-wheat lasagna noodles
- 2 packages (9 ounces each) frozen spinach
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- 2 cups part-skim ricotta cheese
- Grated zest of 1/2 lemon
- Olive oil cooking spray
- 1 cup grated Parmesan, divided
Adviced Equipments
- Baking Sheet (25×15 inches) – Essential for baking lasagna in the oven.
- Mixing Bowls (Set of 3-4) – Used for mixing ingredients like the ricotta filling, spinach, and egg mixture.
- Chef’s Knife – Necessary for efficiently chopping vegetables.
- Cutting Board – A sturdy surface needed when prepping ingredients.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons (Set) – Vital for accurately measuring ingredients.
- Food Processor or Blender – Useful for making the ricotta filling smoother by blending spinach with other ingredients.
- Cheese Grater (Medium & Fine) – Essential for grating cheeses.
- Baking Dish or Lasagna Pan – The pan used for layering ingredients and baking lasagna.
- Oven Mitts – To safely remove the hot baking sheet from the oven.
History of the Recipe
The origins of Spinach Lasagna can be traced back to Italian cuisine, where lasagna itself has been a staple for centuries. The addition of spinach to this classic dish became popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as part of a broader movement toward incorporating nutritious vegetables into everyday meals. Over time, Spinach Lasagna evolved into an innovative take on traditional lasagna that highlights health-conscious ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Fun Facts about this Recipe
Spinach Lasagna has gained popularity not only for its taste but also for the nutritional benefits of spinach—a leafy green loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Did you know that spinach is rich in iron? Incorporating this superfood into lasagna makes it a powerhouse dish for anyone looking to boost their dietary intake.