Italian > Lasagnas

Ricotta and Spinach Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (10-ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) container ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 (24-ounce) jar marinara sauce

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Mixing bowl

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.

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

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

4. Add spinach to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.

5. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

6. Spread 1/2 cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

7. Layer 4 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.

8. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles.

9. Add half of the spinach mixture on top of the ricotta mixture.

10. Sprinkle 1 cup of mozzarella cheese over the spinach mixture.

11. Repeat layers with 4 lasagna noodles, remaining ricotta mixture, remaining spinach mixture, and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.

12. Top with remaining 4 lasagna noodles and remaining marinara sauce.

13. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top.

14. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

15. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 420
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 98mg
Sodium: 1016mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 7g
Protein: 26g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use fresh spinach instead of frozen.
- You can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta cheese.
- You can use any type of shredded cheese instead of mozzarella cheese.

Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the sauce for a meaty lasagna.
- Use a different type of pasta, such as ziti or rigatoni, instead of lasagna noodles.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the spinach mixture for extra flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to drain the spinach well to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
- 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 leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat lasagna in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve lasagna on a large platter with a side salad and garlic bread.

Garnishes:
Garnish lasagna with chopped fresh parsley or basil.

Pairings:
Serve lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread.

Suggested side dishes:
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Garlic bread
- Roasted vegetables

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add a little more marinara sauce or a splash of water.
- If the lasagna is too watery, let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook the lasagna to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Refrigerate leftover lasagna promptly to avoid bacterial growth.

Food history:
Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the Middle Ages. It is typically made with layers of pasta, cheese, and meat or vegetables.

Flavor profiles:
This lasagna is savory and cheesy with a hint of garlic and onion.

Serving suggestions:
Serve lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Rich, Creamy, Cheesy, Comforting