Italian > Lasagnas

Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 3 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups heavy cream

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Large skillet for sautéing vegetables
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their liquid and are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

5. Add the spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Season the vegetable mixture with basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

7. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese. Mix well.

8. In another mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

9. To assemble the lasagna, spread a thin layer of the ricotta cheese mixture on the bottom of the baking dish.

10. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the ricotta cheese layer.

11. Spread half of the vegetable mixture on top of the noodles.

12. Pour half of the heavy cream mixture over the vegetables.

13. Repeat with another layer of lasagna noodles, the remaining vegetable mixture, and the remaining heavy cream mixture.

14. Top with a final layer of lasagna noodles and spread the remaining ricotta cheese mixture on top.

15. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.

16. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.


- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Serving size:
- This recipe serves 8 people.

Nutritional information:
- Calories: 610
- Fat: 45g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Protein: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute cottage cheese for the ricotta cheese.
- You can use any type of mushroom you prefer.
- You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Variations:
- You can add cooked ground beef or sausage to the vegetable mixture for a meatier lasagna.
- You can use different types of cheese, such as fontina or Gruyere, for a different flavor profile.
- You can add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes to the vegetable mixture for added flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente so they don't become too mushy when baked.
- You can make this lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage instructions:
- Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the lasagna, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Garnishes:
- Garnish the lasagna with fresh parsley or basil for added color and flavor.

Pairings:
- This lasagna pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Suggested side dishes:
- A side salad with a vinaigrette dressing
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more heavy cream or a little bit of milk to the mixture before baking.
- If the lasagna is too watery, make sure to drain the vegetables well before layering them in the dish.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.

Food history:
- Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to ancient Rome. It is typically made with layers of pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce.

Flavor profiles:
- This lasagna has a creamy and savory flavor profile, with hints of garlic, basil, and oregano.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the lasagna hot and bubbly, straight out of the oven.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Creamy, Savory, Mushroomy, Cheesy, Spinachy