Lasagna is one of those dishes that brings comfort and warmth to the table, and the great thing is you don’t need meat to make it delicious! This simple vegetarian lasagna recipe is packed with flavorful veggies, creamy cheese, and all the goodness you love about lasagna. It’s perfect for a family dinner or any time you want a healthy, filling meal. Plus, it’s easy to make and customize with your favorite vegetables. Whether you are a seasoned cook or just getting started, you’ll find this recipe both approachable and satisfying.
Cooking Time and Prep Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients for Simple Vegetarian Lasagna Recipe
Before you begin cooking, gather all the necessary ingredients to make this delicious dish. Here’s what you’ll need for this easy lasagna recipe vegetarian:
For the Vegetable Filling:
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 medium eggplant, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup spinach leaves, fresh or frozen (thawed)
For the Ricotta Mixture:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 egg (optional for binding)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Layers:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)
Directions for the Lasagna Recipe Vegetarian Style
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the diced zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Cook for 7-10 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, spinach, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and egg (if using).
- Stir until well combined and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the vegetable sauce.
- Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by a layer of vegetable sauce and 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat the process with three more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, more sauce, and another 1/3 of the mozzarella.
- Add the final layer of noodles, top with the remaining vegetable sauce, and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Step 4: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the dish with foil (to prevent the cheese from browning too quickly) and bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
What is Vegetable Lasagna Made Of?
Vegetable lasagna is a wholesome and flavorful dish that primarily uses a variety of fresh vegetables in place of meat. The key ingredients in this lasagna recipe vegetarian include:
- Zucchini and Eggplant: These vegetables provide a meaty texture without the need for actual meat. They soak up flavors beautifully and add bulk to the dish.
- Bell Peppers: Red and yellow bell peppers bring a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the sauce.
- Mushrooms: Mushrooms add a deep, earthy taste that complements the other vegetables.
- Spinach: Packed with nutrients, spinach adds freshness and a vibrant green color to the lasagna.
- Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes are used to make the sauce, tying the dish together with their rich, tangy flavor.
Vegetable lasagna also includes layers of pasta, creamy ricotta cheese, and a variety of other cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan to give it a creamy, indulgent texture.
What Vegetables Go with Lasagna?
While the recipe above calls for zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and mushrooms, there are many other vegetables you can include to create your perfect lasagna recipe vegetarian. Some great options include:
- Carrots: Grated or finely chopped carrots add sweetness and a nice texture.
- Broccoli: Steamed or lightly sautéed, broccoli adds a bit of crunch and color.
- Cauliflower: A great low-carb option, cauliflower can be roasted and used in the filling.
- Kale: Like spinach, kale is packed with nutrients and can be a flavorful addition.
- Butternut Squash: Roasted butternut squash adds a sweet, creamy flavor that pairs well with cheese.
Experiment with different vegetable combinations to find your favorite variation!
Tips for Making the Best Vegetarian Lasagna
- Roast the Vegetables: Roasting the vegetables instead of sautéing them can deepen their flavors and add a caramelized sweetness to the dish.
- Use Fresh Herbs: While dried herbs work perfectly fine, using fresh basil and parsley can elevate the taste of your lasagna.
- Balance the Cheese: Don’t overdo the cheese layers. While it’s tempting to add more, too much can make the dish too heavy. A good balance of cheese and vegetables is key.
- Let it Rest: After baking, let the lasagna sit for 10-15 minutes before cutting into it. This will help it hold together better when served.
Why This Lasagna Recipe Vegetarian Style is a Must-Try
This vegetarian lasagna is more than just a meat-free alternative—it’s a hearty, flavorful dish that even meat-lovers will enjoy. The combination of fresh vegetables, creamy ricotta, and bubbling mozzarella make every bite satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just want a healthy, comforting meal for your family, this lasagna recipe vegetarian will surely hit the spot.
Serve it with a side salad or some crusty garlic bread, and you’ll have a complete meal that is both nutritious and delicious. The best part? It reheats wonderfully, so leftovers are a breeze.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 7g
This lasagna not only tastes great but also offers a balanced mix of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients thanks to the variety of vegetables used. Plus, it’s lower in fat compared to traditional meat lasagna, making it a healthier option.
Conclusion
Making a delicious and easy lasagna recipe vegetarian style is a fun and rewarding experience. The combination of fresh vegetables, flavorful cheese, and classic Italian seasonings make this recipe perfect for any occasion. With the tips and variations provided, you can customize this recipe to suit your preferences and create a dish that everyone will love.
Read also: Easy Lasagna Recipe: Homemade Easy Method