Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 butternut squash, peeled and sliced into thin rounds
- 1 lb. fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 lb. lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Large skillet for cooking squash and spinach
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced squash and cook until tender and lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
5. In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, chopped basil, chopped parsley, minced garlic, ground nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
6. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of the ricotta mixture on the bottom. Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles on top, followed by a layer of cooked squash, a layer of cooked spinach, and a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Let the lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50-60 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
8-10 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 427
Fat per serving: 19g
Carbohydrates per serving: 38g
Protein per serving: 26g
Fiber per serving: 4g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of winter squash instead of butternut squash.
- You can use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach.
- You can use cottage cheese instead of ricotta cheese.
- You can use any type of hard cheese instead of Parmesan cheese.
- You can use any type of shredded cheese instead of mozzarella cheese.
Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the lasagna for a meaty version.
- Use zucchini instead of squash for a different flavor.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the spinach layer for extra flavor.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as goat cheese or feta cheese, for a unique twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna noodles al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a mandoline slicer to slice the squash into thin, even rounds.
- Make the ricotta mixture ahead of time to save time.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, place the lasagna in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a 350°F oven for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the lasagna on a large platter and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Garnishes:
Fresh basil leaves
Pairings:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Garlic bread
- Caesar salad
- Roasted vegetables
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add a little bit of tomato sauce or water to the layers.
- If the lasagna is too watery, make sure to drain the cooked spinach well before adding it to the layers.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.
- Reheat leftovers to an internal temperature of 165°F before eating.
Food history:
Lasagna is an Italian dish that has been around for centuries. It is made with layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese, and can be filled with a variety of ingredients.
Flavor profiles:
This lasagna is savory and slightly sweet, with a creamy ricotta filling and tender squash and spinach layers.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the lasagna with a side of garlic bread and a Caesar salad for a complete meal.
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Region: Italian