Sunday Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Collection
I absolutely adore making Sunday Roasted Vegetable Lasagna! There’s something so comforting about layering savory roasted vegetables between sheets of pasta and a luscious cheese mixture. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to use up seasonal veggies. I love serving it to family and friends on a cozy Sunday, where we can enjoy the meal together, and it always receives rave reviews. The best part? It’s a great make-ahead option for busy weeks ahead!
As I prepared to make my Sunday Roasted Vegetable Lasagna, I experimented with different vegetables and finally found my perfect blend—zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach topped with creamy ricotta and mozzarella. Roasting the vegetables beforehand truly enhances their flavors, making each bite a burst of deliciousness.
One tip I discovered is to let the lasagna rest before serving. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to cut and serve without everything sliding apart. Trust me, taking that extra time will elevate your dining experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Layers of vibrant, roasted vegetables for depth of flavor
- Creamy ricotta and mozzarella cheese blend for irresistible richness
- A vegetarian dish that satisfies even the heartiest of eaters
Choosing the Right Vegetables
The vegetables you choose can significantly influence the flavor profile of your Sunday Roasted Vegetable Lasagna. While zucchini and bell peppers provide a sweet, earthy base, consider adding other seasonal vegetables like eggplant or mushrooms for added depth. These additions can bring a hearty texture and more complex flavors, making your lasagna even more satisfying. Just make sure to roast the vegetables until they are tender and golden to amplify their natural sweetness.
If you're looking to reduce prep time, using pre-packaged sliced vegetables can be a great shortcut. However, keep in mind that freshly roasted vegetables tend to have a superior flavor and texture. Also, remember that watery vegetables, such as tomatoes or cucumbers, may introduce excess moisture to the dish. It's best to avoid these or roast them longer to draw out excess moisture.
Perfecting the Cheese Mixture
Achieving a creamy and flavorful cheese mixture is essential for a great lasagna. The ricotta cheese serves as the base and provides a smooth, rich texture. Mixing it with an egg enhances the structure, allowing the cheese layers to hold their shape when baked. For extra creaminess, consider adding a bit of mascarpone or cream cheese. This addition will create a melt-in-your-mouth experience that elevates the entire dish.
When seasoning your cheese mixture, don’t skimp on the salt and pepper. Fresh herbs like basil or oregano can also be added to complement the flavors of the roasted vegetables. Taste the mixture before layering it in the lasagna, ensuring that it is as flavorful as you want. This is your chance to create a delicious balance between the cheese and the vegetables.
Ingredients
Gather your ingredients before you start cooking for a seamless experience.
For the lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Make sure to have everything prepped before assembling the lasagna.
Instructions
Let’s lay out the steps for creating this delicious lasagna!
Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
Prepare the Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese and mix well.
Layer the Lasagna
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top, then half of the vegetable mixture, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let it Rest
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and ensures cleaner cuts.
Enjoy your homemade lasagna with a fresh side salad or garlic bread!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you prefer. This lasagna also freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.
Make-Ahead Tips
This lasagna is an excellent make-ahead dish, perfect for busy weeks. You can assemble the lasagna completely, cover it well with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, you may need to add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it's taken straight from the fridge. This helps ensure that your cheese becomes perfectly bubbly and golden.
If you prefer, you can also freeze the assembled lasagna for up to three months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. To bake from frozen, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and increase the baking time to about 60 minutes, covering with foil for the first half.
Serving Suggestions
When serving your Sunday Roasted Vegetable Lasagna, consider pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread. A tangy balsamic vinaigrette on the salad can really cut through the richness and enhance the overall dining experience. I also love to sprinkle some freshly chopped basil or parsley on top before serving for a pop of color and brightness.
If you're planning to serve it at a gathering, cut the lasagna into squares and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or drizzling over the top. This not only adds flavor but also creates a fun, interactive element to the meal. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a glass of red wine, making for a cozy dinner perfect for any gathering.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagna a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator before baking it.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
→ Can I use whole wheat noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat lasagna noodles work well and add extra fiber.
→ Is there a substitute for ricotta cheese?
You can use cottage cheese or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different flavor and texture.
Sunday Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
I absolutely adore making Sunday Roasted Vegetable Lasagna! There’s something so comforting about layering savory roasted vegetables between sheets of pasta and a luscious cheese mixture. This dish is not only delicious but also a great way to use up seasonal veggies. I love serving it to family and friends on a cozy Sunday, where we can enjoy the meal together, and it always receives rave reviews. The best part? It’s a great make-ahead option for busy weeks ahead!
Created by: Ophelia Turner
Recipe Type: Traditional Comfort Food Collection
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 medium zucchinis, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a baking sheet, toss the zucchini, bell peppers, and spinach with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for about 20 minutes or until tender and slightly caramelized.
In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the mozzarella cheese and mix well.
Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Place 3 lasagna noodles on top, then half of the vegetable mixture, followed by half of the cheese mixture. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Once out of the oven, let the lasagna sit for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and ensures cleaner cuts.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you prefer. This lasagna also freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 560mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 18g