Aunt Mary’s Lasagna

🍝 Aunt Mary’s Lasagna: A Delightful Family Recipe 🍝

History:
Aunt Mary’s Lasagna is a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. Its origin can be traced back to Southern Italy, where hearty and flavorful dishes are a tradition. The recipe has evolved over time as it made its way into our family, with each generation adding their own twist. It’s a testament to the enduring power of comfort food.

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Components:

1. Lasagna Noodles: The foundation of any good lasagna. You can use traditional wheat noodles or opt for healthier options like whole wheat or gluten-free, depending on your dietary preferences.
2. Meat Sauce: A rich and savory mixture of ground beef or a combination of beef and pork, cooked with onions, garlic, tomatoes, tomato sauce, and various herbs and spices.
3. Ricotta Cheese Mixture: A blend of creamy ricotta cheese, egg, grated Parmesan, and fresh parsley. This layer adds a delightful creaminess to the dish.
4. Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella cheese is used to create that gooey, cheesy topping that everyone loves.
5. Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan cheese is sprinkled between the layers and on top for a burst of flavor.
6. Fresh Herbs: Basil and oregano add a burst of freshness and fragrance to the lasagna.
7. Salt and Pepper: To season each layer to perfection.

Preparation Steps:

1. Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Prepare the Meat Sauce:

   • In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat. Break it into small pieces as it cooks.
   • Add chopped onions and garlic to the skillet and sauté until they become translucent.
   • Stir in canned tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 20-30 minutes.

3. Prepare the Ricotta Cheese Mixture:

   • In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, grated Parmesan, and chopped fresh parsley. Mix until well blended.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a baking dish, start with a layer of meat sauce, followed by a layer of lasagna noodles, a layer of the ricotta mixture, and a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
   • Repeat the layers until you’ve used all your ingredients.
   • Ensure the top layer is generously covered with cheese.

5. Bake:

   • Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
   • Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

6. Rest and Serve:

   • Allow the lasagna to rest for a few minutes before slicing.
   • Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra grated Parmesan.

Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare Aunt Mary’s Lasagna typically ranges from 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes. This includes preparation and baking time.

Aunt Mary’s Lasagna is a heartwarming and delectable dish that brings families together. Enjoy the rich history and delicious flavors of this classic recipe! 🇮🇹🍽️

🍝 Aunt Mary’s Lasagna: Nutrition Facts and Health Information 🍝

Nutrition Facts (Approximate values per serving):

• Calories: About 350-400 calories per serving, but this can vary based on portion size and ingredient choices.
• Protein: A serving typically provides around 20-25 grams of protein, largely from the meat and cheese.
• Carbohydrates: You can expect 30-40 grams of carbohydrates per serving, mainly from the lasagna noodles and a small amount from the tomato sauce.
• Fat: Each serving may contain 15-20 grams of fat, primarily from the cheese and meat.
• Dietary Fiber: Lasagna doesn’t provide a significant amount of fiber unless you incorporate whole wheat noodles, in which case, it would offer more fiber.
• Sugars: The sugar content is relatively low, mostly from the natural sugars in tomatoes and a small amount from dairy products.
• Sodium: Lasagna can be relatively high in sodium due to canned tomato products and cheese. A serving may contain around 800-1000 milligrams of sodium or more.
• Calcium: A serving typically provides a good amount of calcium from the cheese.

Health Information:

1. Portion Control: Due to its calorie and fat content, it’s essential to watch your portion size if you’re concerned about overeating. Enjoy in moderation.

2. Protein: The meat in lasagna is a good source of protein. However, if you want to make it a bit healthier, you can opt for lean ground meat or even consider using plant-based meat alternatives.

3. Carbohydrates: The pasta in lasagna provides energy through carbohydrates. Using whole wheat noodles can increase fiber content and make it a bit healthier.

4. Fats: Cheese contributes to the fat content. While it adds delicious flavor, it’s advisable to use cheese in moderation or choose lower-fat options if you’re concerned about fat intake.

5. Sodium: Lasagna can be high in sodium, which may not be suitable for individuals on a low-sodium diet. Consider using low-sodium or no-salt-added canned tomato products and reduce salt in the recipe if needed.

6. Calcium: The dish is a good source of calcium due to the dairy products. Calcium is essential for bone health.

Remember that the specific nutritional content of Aunt Mary’s Lasagna can vary based on your recipe and ingredient choices. If you’re looking to make it healthier, consider using whole wheat noodles, lean meats, and reduced-fat cheeses, and be mindful of portion sizes. Enjoy this comforting dish in a way that aligns with your dietary preferences and health goals. 🍴🥗