Healthy Lasagna Recipes With Ricotta Cheese And Spinach
Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that is often associated with decadence and indulgence. However, with some simple substitutions and ingredients, it is possible to make a healthy version of this beloved dish. In this article, we will explore some healthy lasagna recipes that feature ricotta cheese and spinach as key ingredients.
Why Ricotta Cheese And Spinach?
Ricotta cheese is a soft, creamy cheese that is low in fat and high in protein. It is also a good source of calcium and vitamin D. Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and fiber. Together, these two ingredients make for a delicious and nutritious lasagna.
Recipe 1: Spinach And Ricotta Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 1 box of lasagna noodles
- 1 pound of fresh spinach
- 15 ounces of ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1 jar of tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package directions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté the spinach until it is wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Add the wilted spinach to the ricotta mixture and stir until well combined.
- Spread a layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Add a layer of the ricotta and spinach mixture on top of the noodles.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers of sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and cheese until all ingredients are used up.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving.
This recipe serves 8 people and is a great option for a family dinner or meal prep for the week. It is also vegetarian-friendly!
Recipe 2: Gluten-Free Spinach And Ricotta Lasagna
Ingredients:
- 1 box of gluten-free lasagna noodles
- 1 pound of fresh spinach
- 15 ounces of ricotta cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese
- 1 jar of tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Cook the gluten-free lasagna noodles according to the package directions and set aside.
- In a large skillet, sauté the spinach until it is wilted. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Add the wilted spinach to the ricotta mixture and stir until well combined.
- Spread a layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Add a layer of the ricotta and spinach mixture on top of the noodles.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.
- Repeat layers of sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and cheese until all ingredients are used up.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving.
This recipe is a great option for those who are gluten intolerant or have celiac disease. It is also vegetarian-friendly and serves 8 people.
Conclusion
Lasagna doesn't have to be a guilty pleasure. By using ricotta cheese and spinach as key ingredients, it is possible to make a healthy and delicious version of this classic dish. Whether you prefer traditional lasagna or a gluten-free option, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings.