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Spinach and Cheese Lasagna Recipe

There’s something truly comforting about a homemade lasagna, especially when it’s packed with the vibrant flavors of spinach and cheese. Recently, I decided to dive into this delightful culinary journey by trying out a spinach and cheese lasagna recipe that had been recommended by a friend. To say it was a hit with my family would be an understatement. The rich, creamy layers of cheese combined with the fresh earthiness of spinach created a dish that was not only satisfying but also surprisingly easy to prepare. My kids, who are typically reluctant to eat anything green, were asking for seconds, and my partner couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was. It was one of those rare moments where everyone at the dinner table was genuinely happy with the meal in front of them.

Ingredients

To create this sumptuous lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 10 ounces fresh spinach
  • 15 ounces ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil

Instructions

Creating this spinach and cheese lasagna is a straightforward process, but it requires a bit of patience and love to ensure each layer is perfect.

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
  4. Add fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring occasionally until wilted. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, one cup of mozzarella cheese, half a cup of Parmesan cheese, and the beaten egg. Mix well. Stir in the cooked spinach mixture, and season with salt, pepper, oregano, and basil.
  6. Spread one cup of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Place a layer of lasagna noodles over the sauce.
  7. Spread half of the spinach and cheese mixture over the noodles. Top with another layer of noodles, followed by one cup of marinara sauce.
  8. Repeat the layering process with the remaining spinach and cheese mixture, noodles, and marinara sauce, ending with a layer of noodles and sauce on top.
  9. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top of the lasagna.
  10. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  11. Let the lasagna cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition Facts

This spinach and cheese lasagna recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Each serving contains about 400 calories, making it a hearty meal that fits well into a balanced diet.

Preparation Time

From start to finish, preparing this lasagna takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes 30 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking time. It’s a dish that requires some time in the kitchen, but the end result is well worth the effort.

How to Serve

Here are some delightful ways to serve your spinach and cheese lasagna:

  • Pair it with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
  • Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.
  • Accompany it with a glass of your favorite red wine, such as a Chianti or Merlot, for a classic Italian dining experience.
  • Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving for an added touch of freshness.
  • Consider a simple dessert like a scoop of lemon sorbet to cleanse the palate after the hearty meal.

Additional Tips

To ensure your lasagna turns out perfectly, consider these additional tips:

  1. Use fresh spinach: While frozen spinach can be a convenient alternative, fresh spinach gives the lasagna a vibrant flavor and texture.
  2. Let it rest: Allowing the lasagna to cool slightly before cutting helps the layers set, making it easier to serve.
  3. Customize the cheese: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique twist.
  4. Prepare in advance: You can assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate it. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
  5. Adjust the seasoning: Taste the spinach and cheese mixture before assembling to adjust the seasoning to your preference.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about spinach and cheese lasagna:

  1. Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh? Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
  2. Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free? Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles available in most grocery stores.
  3. What can I do if I don’t have ricotta cheese? You can substitute cottage cheese or even a mixture of cream cheese and Greek yogurt for a similar texture.
  4. How long can I store leftovers? Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
  5. Can I freeze the lasagna? Yes, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked lasagna for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed.