Indulge in a culinary masterpiece that combines the rich flavors of Italy with the wholesome goodness of spinach—our Spinach and Pesto White Lasagna! This creamy, cheesy delight is not just another lasagna; it’s a vibrant twist that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Perfect for family dinners or impressing guests, this dish is a feast for the eyes and the palate. With layers of tender noodles, luscious ricotta, and fragrant pesto, you won't believe how easy it is to create this restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. Ready to elevate your dinner game? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Spinach and Pesto White Lasagna!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups spinach, cooked and chopped
- 1 cup pesto
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- If using dried lasagna noodles, cook them according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent further cooking. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix ricotta cheese with chopped cooked spinach, salt, and pepper. Ensure the spinach is well-drained to prevent excess moisture.
- Spread a thin layer of pesto on the bottom of the baking dish to prevent noodles from sticking.
- Layer the lasagna assembly: Start with a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a spread of ricotta-spinach mixture, drizzle of pesto, and sprinkle of mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layering process two more times, ensuring the top layer is covered with cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn't touch the cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow layers to set.
- Slice and serve hot, garnishing with additional fresh basil or parmesan if desired.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the ricotta-spinach mixture and layer the lasagna a few hours in advance. Just cover it and refrigerate until you're ready to bake!
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach instead of frozen for a brighter flavor and better texture. If you have fresh basil, feel free to add it to the ricotta mixture for an extra burst of freshness.
- Don’t Skimp on Cheese: For the best flavor, use high-quality mozzarella and parmesan cheese. The creaminess and meltiness will elevate your lasagna to the next level.
- Layering Technique: When layering, ensure each layer is spread evenly. This will help the lasagna cook uniformly and prevent any dry spots.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to slice without falling apart.
- Customize Your Pesto: Feel free to experiment with different types of pesto—like sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto—for a unique twist on the classic flavor.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh basil or extra parmesan on top before serving not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the overall flavor.Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful lasagna recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 65mg
