Easy Vegetarian Spinach Lasagna

Easy Vegetarian Spinach Lasagna is the perfect comfort food, offering a satisfying mix of creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and nutrient-packed spinach. This meatless dish is a great option for vegetarians and is rich in protein, fiber, and calcium. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and makes for excellent leftovers!

Essential Ingredients

To make this delicious and hearty lasagna, you’ll need:

• Spinach: 1 bunch, providing iron, fiber, and vitamins.
• Lasagna Noodles: 9, forming the layers of the dish.
• Ricotta Cheese: 8 ounces, for creaminess and protein.
• Mozzarella Cheese: 1 cup, shredded, for a stretchy, melted texture.
• Egg: 1 large, lightly beaten, to bind the cheese mixture.
• Nutmeg: 1 pinch, adding warmth and depth to the filling.
• Dried Basil: 1 pinch, for a classic Italian flavor.
• Pasta Sauce: 1 cup, coating the noodles with rich tomato goodness.
• Parmesan Cheese: 1/4 cup, for a sharp, savory finish.
• Salt & Black Pepper: To taste, enhancing the overall flavor.

Preparation Steps

1. Preheat & Prepare:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Spray a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish with cooking spray and set aside.

2. Cook the Spinach & Noodles:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Boil the spinach for about 2 minutes until wilted, then drain and press out excess water.
• Cook the lasagna noodles in the same boiling water for about 8 minutes until al dente, then drain.

3. Prepare the Ricotta Mixture:

• In a bowl, mix the spinach, ricotta, 1/2 cup mozzarella, egg, nutmeg, basil, salt, and black pepper until well combined.

4. Assemble the Lasagna:

• Spread 1/4 cup pasta sauce on the bottom of the prepared dish.
• Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, and 1/4 cup pasta sauce.
• Repeat with 3 more noodles, the remaining ricotta mixture, and another 1/4 cup pasta sauce.
• Finish with the last 3 noodles, the remaining pasta sauce, and the remaining mozzarella.
• Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and cover with foil.

5. Bake:

• Bake for 25 minutes covered.
• Remove foil and bake for another 25 minutes until bubbling and lightly browned.
• Let lasagna rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Health Benefits

This vegetarian lasagna is packed with essential nutrients:

• Rich in protein: The ricotta and mozzarella provide high-quality protein for muscle health.
• Good source of fiber: Spinach and whole-grain lasagna noodles support digestion.
• Calcium boost: Dairy ingredients contribute to strong bones.
• Heart-healthy: A meatless dish with lower saturated fat than traditional lasagna.

Serving Suggestions

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and color.
• Serve with a side salad for added freshness.
• Pair with garlic bread for a complete Italian-inspired meal.
• Enjoy with a glass of red wine or sparkling water for a balanced dining experience.

Creative Variations

• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for more nutrients.
• Spicy Twist: Mix in red pepper flakes or add a spicy marinara sauce.
• Vegan Option: Use dairy-free ricotta, mozzarella, and egg replacer.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Pro Tips

• Press the spinach well to remove excess moisture and prevent sogginess.
• Let the lasagna rest for at least 5 minutes before cutting for cleaner slices.
• Use fresh pasta sheets for a softer, homemade-style texture.
• Double the recipe to make extra for meal prepping or freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen spinach? Yes! Thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing with ricotta.

What type of sauce is best? A simple marinara or tomato basil sauce works best, but you can also use a creamy tomato sauce.

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble it a day in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake when ready.

Enjoy your Easy Vegetarian Spinach Lasagna, a comforting, cheesy, and nutritious meal for any occasion!

Print