Italian > Lasagnas

Vézzena and Spinach Lasagna Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 12 lasagna noodles
- 1 pound of fresh spinach, washed and chopped
- 1 pound of Vézzena cheese, grated
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh oregano
- 1/4 cup of chopped fresh thyme
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 2 cups of marinara sauce

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

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.

5. In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped herbs, salt, and black pepper.

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

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

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

9. Sprinkle half of the cooked spinach on top of the ricotta mixture.

10. Sprinkle half of the grated Vézzena cheese on top of the spinach.

11. Repeat layers with 3 more lasagna noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, the remaining spinach, and the remaining Vézzena cheese.

12. Top with the remaining 3 lasagna noodles and pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top.

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

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

15. Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
375°F
Serving size:
6-8 servings

Nutritional information:
Calories per serving: 480
Fat: 23g
Carbohydrates: 39g
Protein: 29g
Sodium: 890mg
Sugar: 6g
Fiber: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Vézzena cheese can be substituted with Asiago or Parmesan cheese.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with frozen spinach, thawed and drained.
- Ricotta cheese can be substituted with cottage cheese.

Variations:
- Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the lasagna layers for a meaty version.
- Use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, for a different flavor profile.
- Add sliced mushrooms or roasted red peppers to the spinach layer for added flavor and texture.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cook the lasagna noodles until al dente, as they will continue to cook in the oven.
- Use a mandoline or sharp knife to thinly slice the Vézzena cheese for easier grating.
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing to allow the layers to set.

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 a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs on top.

Garnishes:
- Garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs.

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, be sure to drain the spinach well and use less marinara sauce.

Food safety advice:
- Be 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 rich and savory flavor from the Vézzena cheese and herbs, balanced by the sweetness of the marinara sauce.

Serving suggestions:
- Serve the lasagna hot and fresh out of the oven for the best flavor and texture.

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Region: Italian

Taste: Savory, Rich, Creamy, Cheesy, Herbal, Earthy