Italian > Lasagna

Tree Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound tree spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce

Special equipment needed:
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet

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, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened.

4. Add tree spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.

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

6. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of the baking dish.

7. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.

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

9. Spread half of the tree spinach mixture over the ricotta mixture.

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

11. Repeat layers with remaining ingredients, ending with a layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

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

13. 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:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories: 420
Fat: 21g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 920mg
Sugar: 7g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Tree spinach can be substituted with regular spinach or kale.
- Marinara sauce can be substituted with tomato sauce or homemade tomato puree.

Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or sausage to the tree spinach mixture for a meaty lasagna.
- Use different types of cheese, such as fontina or provolone, for a different flavor profile.
- Add roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to the layers for added nutrition and flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Cook the lasagna noodles al dente to prevent them from becoming too mushy.
- Make sure to drain the tree spinach well to prevent excess moisture in the lasagna.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing to prevent it from falling apart.

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

Reheating instructions:
- Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.

Presentation ideas:
- Serve the lasagna on a large platter with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, sprinkled on top.

Garnishes:
- Sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top of the lasagna before serving.
- Add a dollop of ricotta cheese on top of each slice.

Pairings:
- Serve with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

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

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the lasagna is too dry, add more marinara sauce or a splash of milk to the ricotta mixture.
- If the lasagna is too watery, make sure to drain the tree spinach well and pat it dry with paper towels.

Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the lasagna to an internal temperature of 165°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 ancient Rome.

Flavor profiles:
- Creamy, cheesy, and savory.

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

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Creamy, Cheesy, Herby, Garlicky