Elevate your lasagna game with this nutritious and delicious Spinach and Broccoli Lasagna. Combining the goodness of fresh vegetables with creamy ricotta, melty mozzarella, and savory Parmesan, this dish is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this lasagna is both satisfying and wholesome. Follow these steps to create a comforting and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups milk
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated preferred
- 20 oz. fresh baby spinach, chopped
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 10 oz. broccoli, cut into pieces and florets
- 12 oven-ready lasagna noodles (such as Barilla)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions:
- Prepare the White Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, and freshly grated nutmeg.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it has wilted, which should take around 3-4 minutes. Transfer it from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the broccoli pieces and florets. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until tender. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Place 3 oven-ready lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the noodles, followed by half of the cooked spinach and half of the broccoli.
- Sprinkle 1/3 of the shredded mozzarella cheese over the vegetables.
- Repeat the layers: white sauce, 3 lasagna noodles, remaining ricotta, remaining spinach, remaining broccoli, and another 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese.
- Top with the final 3 lasagna noodles, the rest of the white sauce, the remaining mozzarella cheese, and the freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Conclusion:
Summary: This Spinach and Broccoli Lasagna offers a fresh and healthful take on the traditional Italian favorite. Featuring layers of velvety white sauce, vibrant vegetables, and melted cheese, it’s bound to become a beloved dish in your household. Ideal for any gathering, this lasagna provides both comfort and nourishment. Share this delectable meal with loved ones and savor the moments together!