Sun-Drenched Pesto Lasagna: A Colorful Italian Delight

Red, White, and Green Lasagna Recipe

🍝 Introduction:
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Red, White, and Green Lasagna, a culinary masterpiece brought to you by lovewithrecipes.com. This recipe combines layers of savory goodness, showcasing the vibrant colors of Italy’s flag. With its cheesy richness and aromatic basil pesto, this lasagna is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Let’s dive into the recipe and create some culinary magic!

⏰ Preparation Time: 30 minutes
⏰ Cooking Time: 1 hour
⏰ Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

🥘 Ingredients:

• 1 cup hot water
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes
• 8 tablespoons butter
• 4 onions
• 1 cup flour
• 1/4 cup milk
• 2 teaspoons salt
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 tablespoons basil pesto
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese

🔪 Instructions:

1. Prepare Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

   • Pour hot water over sun-dried tomatoes and let them sit until softened, approximately 10 minutes.
   • Drain the tomatoes, reserving the liquid.

2. Cook Pasta:

   • Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
   • Drain the noodles in a colander.

3. Prepare Tomato Sauce:

   • Puree the softened sun-dried tomatoes in a blender until smooth, using reserved liquid if necessary.

4. Prepare White Sauce:

   • Melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan.
   • Add chopped onions and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.
   • Stir in flour and cook until it starts to stick to the pan, approximately 2 minutes.
   • Gradually add milk, stirring constantly until smooth.
   • Cook until the mixture thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
   • Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

5. Prepare Ricotta Mixture:

   • In a small bowl, combine ricotta cheese and basil pesto.

6. Assemble the Lasagna:

   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with olive oil.
   • Arrange a layer of lasagna noodles over the bottom of the prepared baking dish, covering it completely.
   • Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodle layer and top with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese.
   • Add another layer of lasagna noodles over the cheese.
   • Top with half of the sun-dried tomato sauce and another cup of mozzarella cheese.
   • Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of mozzarella cheese on top.

7. Bake the Lasagna:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-60 minutes, or until the lasagna is hot throughout and the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

8. Serve:

   • Once baked, remove the lasagna from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
   • Pair with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc wine for a perfect dining experience.

🍷 Pairing Suggestion:
This Red, White, and Green Lasagna pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc wine, enhancing the flavors of the dish and elevating your dining experience to new heights.

Indulge in the layers of cheesy goodness and aromatic basil pesto, as you savor each bite of this delectable lasagna. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving comfort food, this recipe is sure to impress! Enjoy the warmth and richness of Italian flavors with every mouthful of this Red, White, and Green Lasagna. Buon appetito! 🇮🇹