Zucchini Lasagna Recipe
Delight in this vibrant Zucchini Lasagna, a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish that combines the goodness of fresh zucchini with rich layers of flavor. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this vegetarian recipe will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green zucchini (cut lengthwise into very thin slices) | 2 medium |
| Homemade Pizza and Pasta Sauce | 1½ cups |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium |
| Basil leaves (chopped) | 1½ tablespoons |
| Extra virgin olive oil | As needed |
| Dried oregano | 1 tablespoon |
| Mozzarella cheese (shredded) | 1 cup |
| Paneer (homemade cottage cheese, crumbled) | ½ cup |
| Garlic (minced) | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper powder | As required |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | Approximately 250-300 |
| Protein | ~15g |
| Total Fat | ~18g |
| Carbohydrates | ~12g |
| Dietary Fiber | ~3g |
| Sodium | ~300mg |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Total Time: 100 minutes
Servings
- Servings: 4
Course
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- Course: Dinner
Instructions
To embark on your Zucchini Lasagna journey, begin by preparing the zucchini. Place the thinly sliced zucchini on a colander and generously sprinkle salt over them. Allow the salted zucchini to sit for approximately 30 minutes; this process will draw out excess moisture, ensuring your lasagna remains perfectly layered without becoming soggy.
While the zucchini is resting, heat a splash of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma. Next, introduce the homemade pizza and pasta sauce to the skillet, stirring gently for about 3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Once your sauce is bubbling, fold in the crumbled paneer, along with salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and chopped basil. Continue to cook this flavorful mixture for an additional 2 minutes, letting the ingredients harmonize.
After the zucchini has finished draining, rinse the salt off under cold water and gently squeeze out any remaining moisture. In a separate skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat and add the zucchini slices. Cook them until they develop a lovely golden-brown color on both sides, which will enhance their flavor.
Now that all components are ready, it’s time to assemble your lasagna. Take an oven-safe dish and spread a layer of the prepared pasta sauce mixture at the bottom. Begin layering the zucchini slices on top, followed by another generous layer of pasta sauce and a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella cheese. Repeat this layering process for a total of three layers, ensuring a delightful combination of flavors in each bite.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once preheated, place the assembled lasagna in the oven and bake for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, creating a golden crust on top.
When the time is up, remove the lasagna from the oven and allow it to rest for a few minutes. To serve, garnish with additional chopped basil for a fresh touch. Plate your Zucchini Lasagna with a side of a delightful dessert like Mocha Panna Cotta to create a complete and satisfying meal.
Enjoy this scrumptious Zucchini Lasagna, a dish that not only nourishes the body but also warms the heart, showcasing the beauty of vegetarian cuisine. Bon appétit!
