Vegetarian Lasagne with Ricotta

Vegetarian lasagne with ricotta is a warm, comforting dish that brings together layers of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, fresh vegetables, and creamy ricotta cheese. It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe is designed to be straightforward while delivering bold flavors and a hearty texture. Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or simply looking to enjoy a meatless dish, this lasagne is a rewarding choice.

Ingredients

To prepare this flavorful lasagne, gather the following ingredients:

9 lasagne noodles (regular or no-boil)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium zucchinis, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
2 cups baby spinach
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 jar (24 ounces) marinara sauce
1½ cups ricotta cheese
1 egg
1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Preparing the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Next, add the diced zucchini along with the red and yellow bell peppers. Cook the vegetables for 5 to 6 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly while still maintaining a bit of texture. Add the baby spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 more minutes.

Season the vegetable mixture with oregano, basil, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine and let the flavors meld together for another minute. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the vegetables aside to cool slightly while you prepare the other components.

Cooking the Lasagne Noodles

If you’re using regular lasagne noodles, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the noodles and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking. If you’re using no-boil noodles, you can skip this step and proceed directly to assembling the lasagne.

Mixing the Ricotta Filling

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with one beaten egg. The egg helps bind the ricotta and gives the filling a creamy, rich consistency once baked. Stir the mixture until smooth and evenly blended. If desired, you can also add a pinch of salt or some chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil for added flavor.

Layering the Lasagne

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil or nonstick spray. Begin by spreading a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the dish to prevent the noodles from sticking. Place three lasagne noodles over the sauce, slightly overlapping if necessary.

Spread a third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Then add a layer of the sautéed vegetables, followed by a generous spoonful of marinara sauce. Sprinkle a third of the shredded mozzarella over the top. Repeat this layering process two more times: noodles, ricotta, vegetables, sauce, and mozzarella.

After the final layer, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. This will create a golden, bubbly crust as it bakes. Cover the dish with aluminum foil, making sure the foil doesn’t touch the cheese to avoid sticking.

Baking the Lasagne

Place the covered lasagne in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and lightly browned. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the lasagne for the last 2 to 3 minutes, but watch it closely to prevent burning.

Once baked, remove the lasagne from the oven and let it rest for at least 10 minutes. Resting allows the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian lasagne pairs well with a variety of sides. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy layers. Garlic bread or a warm baguette makes an excellent accompaniment, perfect for soaking up any extra sauce. For a full meal, consider serving a simple soup such as minestrone or tomato basil before the main course.

For beverages, red wines like Chianti or a medium-bodied Merlot complement the tomato-based sauce nicely. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a splash of lemon or a cold glass of iced tea works well.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover lasagne can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a slice in a microwave-safe dish and heat on medium power for 2 to 3 minutes, or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.

This dish also freezes well. To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or use a freezer-safe container. Frozen lasagne can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as directed.

Tips for Success

For the best results, use fresh and high-quality ingredients. Fresh vegetables bring brightness to the dish, while a flavorful marinara sauce enhances the overall taste. If you wish to customize the lasagne, consider adding mushrooms, eggplant, or roasted butternut squash to the vegetable mixture.

Using a combination of cheeses adds depth of flavor and texture. While this recipe calls for mozzarella and Parmesan, feel free to experiment with fontina or provolone for variation. Additionally, seasoning each component as you go ensures a well-balanced and tasty final result.

To save time on busy days, the lasagne can be assembled in advance. Prepare it up to the baking step, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, bake as directed, adding an extra 5 to 10 minutes to account for the chilled temperature.

Final Thoughts

Vegetarian lasagne with ricotta is a comforting, wholesome dish that appeals to a wide range of palates. Its layered structure and combination of flavors create a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and nourishing. Whether served at a family dinner or brought to a potluck, this lasagne is sure to be a favorite. With a little preparation and thoughtful layering, you’ll have a delicious and memorable meal ready to enjoy.

Vegetarian Lasagne with Ricotta