Celery Root Lasagna: A Unique Low-Carb Delight
Description
This Celery Root Lasagna presents an intriguing twist on the classic Italian dish, merging the comforting layers of lasagna with the creamy, rich textures reminiscent of a gratin. By eliminating traditional pasta and replacing it with the earthiness of celery root, this recipe is not only delightful but also ideal for those following a low-carb diet. It serves beautifully as a warm, satisfying dish for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Recipe Information
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 40 minutes |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 55 minutes |
| Recipe Category | < 60 Minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 servings (can be adjusted) |
| Keywords | Oven, Low-Carb, Gratifying, Comfort Food |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 280.7 kcal |
| Total Fat | 15.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 9.4 g |
| Cholesterol | 50.4 mg |
| Sodium | 892.4 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 28.6 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.3 g |
| Sugars | 7.2 g |
| Protein | 10.2 g |
Ingredients
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 3 | celery root |
| 2 | tablespoons fresh lemon juice |
| NA | sea salt |
| 2 | cups tomato sauce |
| 3/4 | cup heavy cream |
| NA | butter |
| 1 | cup parmigiano-reggiano cheese |
Instructions
-
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven reaches the perfect temperature for baking the lasagna, allowing the top to become beautifully golden.
-
-
Prepare the Celery Root: Take the celery root, peeling off the tough outer skin. Once peeled, slice the root in half to make handling easier. Utilizing a mandoline, electric slicer, or a sharp knife, cut the celery root into paper-thin slices, creating a delicate layer that will hold the lasagna together.
-
Cook the Celery Root: In a large pot, bring 6 quarts of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add the fresh lemon juice along with 3 tablespoons of sea salt to the water. Gently add the sliced celery root, ensuring to stir occasionally to prevent the slices from sticking together. Cook the celery root until tender but still firm, which should take about 7 minutes.
-
Drain the Celery Root: After the cooking time, carefully drain the celery root using a colander, and press out any excess water gently to avoid breaking the delicate slices. This step is crucial for preventing a watery lasagna.
-
Prepare the Sauce: While the celery root is draining, take a medium saucepan and combine the tomato sauce with the heavy cream over low heat. Stir gently to blend the flavors together, allowing the sauce to warm and thicken slightly. Taste for seasoning and adjust if necessary.
-
Butter the Baking Dish: Generously butter a gratin dish or a suitable baking dish to ensure the lasagna does not stick, adding a subtle flavor that complements the dish.
-
Layer the Lasagna: Start layering your lasagna by placing 1/3 of the drained celery root slices at the bottom of the prepared gratin dish. Next, spoon 1/3 cup of the creamy tomato sauce over the celery root, followed by a sprinkle of 1/3 cup of grated parmigiano-reggiano cheese. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with the cheese on top for a deliciously melted crust.
-
Prepare Ahead (Optional): If desired, you can prepare the lasagna up to this point several hours in advance. Simply cover it and let it rest in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before baking.
-
Bake: Place the gratin dish in the center of the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
-
Serve: Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Cut into thick wedges and serve immediately, enjoying the delightful layers of celery root, creamy tomato sauce, and savory cheese.
This Celery Root Lasagna is not only a celebration of flavors and textures but also a testament to the versatility of vegetables in creating hearty, comforting meals that can be enjoyed by everyone, especially those looking for a low-carb alternative. Enjoy this dish as a delightful centerpiece at your dinner table or as a comforting weeknight meal that’s sure to impress!
