Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a comforting, healthy, and flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This white sauce vegetable lasagna recipe is your answer. Forget heavy, meaty lasagnas – this vegetarian version is lighter, brighter, and bursting with fresh vegetables and creamy goodness. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend gathering. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying homemade dish!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous cooking session.
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For the Vegetable Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For the Bechamel Sauce (White Sauce):
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
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Other:
- 9 lasagna noodles (oven-ready preferred)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Lasagna Perfection
This recipe is surprisingly simple, even for beginners. Let's get cooking!
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Prepare the Vegetable Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in bell peppers and zucchini and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until slightly tender. Add diced tomatoes, chickpeas, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Make the Bechamel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, forming a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens. Reduce heat to low and stir in nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
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Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of bechamel sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce. Top with half of the vegetable filling, half of the mozzarella cheese, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers: noodles, remaining vegetable filling, remaining mozzarella, and remaining Parmesan. Pour the remaining bechamel sauce over the top.
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Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the lasagna is heated through. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Tips for Lasagna Success
- Oven-ready noodles: Using oven-ready lasagna noodles eliminates the need for pre-boiling, saving you time and effort.
- Don't overcook vegetables: Slightly tender vegetables will retain their texture and flavor in the baked lasagna.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. A pinch of red pepper flakes could add a nice kick!
- Make it ahead: Assemble the lasagna ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. Add about 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
Variations: Get Creative in the Kitchen
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or carrots.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the vegetable filling for a spicier lasagna.
- Meatless "meat": For a heartier vegetarian option, add crumbled firm tofu or vegetarian ground "meat" to the vegetable filling.
- Different cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses like ricotta, provolone, or fontina.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This white sauce vegetable lasagna is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy this quick dinner idea, and remember to share your culinary creations with us! We'd love to see your pictures!