Lasagna Primavera

Lasagna Primavera is a vibrant and fresh take on the classic Italian dish, featuring layers of tender pasta, a medley of colorful spring vegetables, creamy ricotta, and a light béchamel or tomato sauce. This vegetable-forward lasagna offers a healthy, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor and perfect for any occasion. The combination of roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, with melty mozzarella and ricotta cheese, makes this lasagna both hearty and light. It’s an excellent way to showcase seasonal produce while still indulging in the comfort of a baked, cheesy pasta dish.

Ingredients:

For the vegetables:

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into thirds
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 3 cups béchamel sauce (or tomato sauce, if preferred)

Instructions:

1. Roast the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a large baking sheet, toss the zucchini, yellow squash, red bell pepper, and asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender and lightly browned.
2. Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, Italian seasoning, and ½ cup of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well and set aside.
3. Cook the lasagna noodles: If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Assemble the lasagna: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of béchamel or tomato sauce on the bottom. Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top, followed by a layer of the ricotta mixture, roasted vegetables, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat the layers, finishing with a final layer of noodles, sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella and the remaining Parmesan.
5. Bake: Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
6. Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Lasagna Primavera is a beautiful, delicious dish that highlights fresh vegetables in every bite, offering the perfect balance of comfort and healthy eating!