Vegetarian Lasagna Italian Style

This delicious vegetarian lasagna combines the rich flavors of tomato, eggplant, zucchini, and creamy Béchamel sauce. The dish offers a delightful balance of textures and tastes, perfect for those seeking a hearty, meat-free meal. Layers of tender pasta, savory vegetable sauce, and gooey cheese make it an irresistible treat for lunch or dinner. A hint of nutmeg in the Béchamel sauce adds a subtle warmth, enhancing the dish's complexity. Ideal for family gatherings, its preparation becomes a joyful experience when shared with loved ones. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes will have everyone eagerly awaiting mealtime. Not only is it satisfying, but it's also packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for health-conscious eaters. Pair it with a crisp salad or a loaf of crusty bread for a complete meal. This vegetarian lasagna is an invitation to indulge in comfort and flavor with every bite.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 18 lasagna sheets
• Parmesan cheese

For Béchamel Sauce

• 5 tablespoons of butter
• 4 tablespoons of flour
• 3 cups of milk
• 2 teaspoons of salt
• ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg

For Vegetarian Tomato Sauce

• 2 onions
• 2 carrots
• 1 eggplant
• 2 zucchinis
• Tomato sauce
• Olive oil
• Salt

Preparation Time

Total: 120 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Béchamel Sauce: In a medium-sized saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps, approximately 6-7 minutes.
2. Heat the Milk: Warm the milk in a separate pot. Once it simmers, add it gradually to the flour-butter mixture, stirring constantly to maintain a smooth texture.
3. Season the Sauce: Bring the mixture to a quick boil for about 30 seconds. Stir in the salt and nutmeg, then set the sauce aside.
4. Prepare the Vegetable Sauce: Heat some olive oil in a large pan. Add chopped onions and sauté on low heat for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add Vegetables: Add diced carrots, eggplant, and zucchinis to the pan. Cook the vegetables for 15 minutes, allowing them to soften.
6. Incorporate Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce, a cup of water, and a pinch of salt. Let it simmer for at least 20 minutes.
7. Boil Lasagna Sheets: Immerse each lasagna sheet in boiling water for 1 minute. This helps maintain a pleasant texture.
8. Assemble the Lasagna: Spread 2 tablespoons of the Béchamel sauce on the base of a baking dish. Arrange 6 lasagna sheets over the sauce.
9. Layer the Ingredients: Cover the sheets with a generous portion of the vegetable sauce, Béchamel sauce, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers.
10. Complete the Layers: Finish with a final layer of lasagna sheets. Top with only Béchamel sauce and Parmesan cheese.
11. Bake the Lasagna: Place the dish in a preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes.
12. Enjoy: Serve hot and savor the flavorful layers. Bon appétit!

Tips

• Substitution: Swap zucchini for mushrooms for an earthy flavor.
• Cheese Alternative: Use mozzarella for a gooey texture.
• Enhance Flavor: Add fresh basil or oregano to the vegetable sauce.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Protein: 15g
• Fats: 22g
• Carbs: 35g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna sheets and flour.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute with vegan cheese and non-dairy milk.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad dressed in vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for added comfort.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color.

Best Places

1. Osteria Mozza - Known for its Italian classics and delightful lasagna. Location: 6602 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
2. Trattoria Sostanza - A cozy spot with a celebrated vegetable lasagna. Location: Via del Porcellana, 25/R, Florence, Italy.
3. Ristorante A Mano - Offers a superb vegetarian lasagna in a warm setting. Location: Strausberger Platz 1, Berlin, Germany.
4. Da Enzo al 29 - Famous for its authentic flavors and wholesome lasagna. Location: Via dei Vascellari, 29, Rome, Italy.
5. The Cheese Bar - Modern twists on classic dishes including a unique lasagna. Location: Camden Market, London, UK.
6. Félicie - A charming eatery serving delectable vegetarian offerings. Location: 248 Rue de Charenton, Paris, France.
7. Pastaio - Specializes in fresh pasta dishes, including a standout lasagna. Location: 19 Ganton St, Carnaby, UK.
8. Bibo - Delicious, hearty dishes with a gourmet touch. Location: 1630 N Helios Dr, Hong Kong.
9. Neni - Fusion of Mediterranean flavors with a famous lasagna dish. Location: Naschmarkt 510, Vienna, Austria.
10. A Tavola - Known for its rustic charm and exceptional lasagna. Location: 132 Darlinghurst Rd, Sydney, Australia.