Italian > Lasagnas

Timphan and Spinach Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 package of lasagna noodles
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 jar of tomato sauce
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 package of frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 container of ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot for boiling noodles
- Skillet for cooking beef and onion

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 skillet, cook ground beef, onion, and garlic over medium heat until beef is browned and onion is tender. Drain any excess fat.

4. Add tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, basil, oregano, salt, pepper, and water to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let simmer for 10 minutes.

5. In a separate bowl, mix together thawed and drained spinach, ricotta cheese, and Parmesan cheese.

6. In the baking dish, spread a thin layer of the meat sauce on the bottom.

7. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.

8. Spread half of the spinach and cheese mixture over the noodles.

9. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese over the spinach and cheese mixture.

10. Repeat layers of meat sauce, noodles, spinach and cheese mixture, and mozzarella cheese.

11. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

12. Remove foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or 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 per serving: 450
Fat per serving: 22g
Carbohydrates per serving: 31g
Protein per serving: 32g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for ground beef.
- Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen spinach.
- Cottage cheese can be substituted for ricotta cheese.

Variations:
- Add sliced mushrooms to the meat sauce for an extra vegetable.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or provolone, instead of mozzarella.
- Add a layer of sliced zucchini or eggplant for more vegetables.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to drain excess fat from the meat after cooking to prevent a greasy lasagna.
- Thaw frozen spinach in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
- Let lasagna cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Storage instructions:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating instructions:
Reheat individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
Serve lasagna on a large platter with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil on top.

Garnishes:
Fresh parsley or basil

Pairings:
Garlic bread and a side salad

Suggested side dishes:
Side salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers

Troubleshooting advice:
- If lasagna is too dry, add more tomato sauce or water to the meat sauce.
- If lasagna is too watery, let it bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes.

Food safety advice:
- Be sure to cook ground beef to an internal temperature of 160°F to ensure it is safe to eat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator within 2 hours of cooking.

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

Flavor profiles:
Savory, cheesy, and slightly tangy from the tomato sauce.

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

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Rich, Cheesy, Herby, Comforting