Description
This hearty spinach lasagna is a comforting and wholesome dish that combines layers of tender whole wheat noodles, creamy ricotta cheese blended with fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. Infused with aromatic garlic and Italian seasoning, and baked in a rich marinara sauce, it provides a warm, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or special occasions. With its balance of fresh greens and cheesy goodness, it’s a soul-warming vegetarian classic that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
Noodles and Vegetables
- 12 sheets lasagna noodles (uncooked, whole wheat recommended)
- 4 cups fresh spinach (chopped, organic preferred)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
Cheeses
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 3 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
- 1 large egg
Sauce and Seasoning
- 3 cups marinara sauce (homemade or low-sugar store-bought)
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (or mix of oregano, basil, thyme)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the lasagna evenly.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to maintain aromatic depth.
- Cook Spinach: Add the chopped fresh spinach to the skillet and sauté until wilted, approximately 3-4 minutes, which softens the greens and enhances their flavor.
- Prepare Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, beaten egg, and Italian seasoning. Fold the sautéed spinach and garlic into this mixture until fully incorporated, creating a creamy filling.
- Layer Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange 3 lasagna noodles on top, then spread half of the ricotta-spinach mixture over the noodles, followed by a sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
- Repeat Layers: Add another layer of marinara sauce, 3 noodles, the remaining ricotta-spinach mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Finally, top with the remaining noodles, marinara sauce, and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt nicely.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden brown, signaling it’s perfectly cooked.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set, making it easier to slice and serve without falling apart.
Notes
- Using whole wheat lasagna noodles increases the fiber content for a healthier option.
- For a lighter filling, substitute ricotta cheese with cottage cheese.
- Choose low-sugar marinara sauce to keep the recipe healthy and reduce unnecessary sweetness.
- Allowing the lasagna to rest after baking ensures cleaner slices and better presentation.
- If fresh spinach is not available, frozen spinach can be used but must be thoroughly drained before sautéing.
- This recipe can be made ahead of time and refrigerated before baking; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.
