Introduction
Lasagna is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. This versatile Italian dish, loved by many, combines layers of pasta, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese to create a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe introduces a fresh twist to the traditional lasagna, incorporating a medley of vegetables and a hint of spice to elevate the flavors. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this lasagna will become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients
For the Lasagna:
- Lasagna pasta – 200 g (7 oz)
- Eggs – 3
- Butter – 50 g (1/4 cup)
- Flour – 3 tbsp (25 g)
- Milk – 500 ml (2 cups)
- Minced meat – 500 g (1.1 lbs)
- Onion – 1, finely chopped
- Carrot – 1, grated
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Chili – 1, finely chopped (optional)
- Bell pepper – 1, diced
- Spring onions – 2-3 stalks, chopped
- Fresh dill – 2 tbsp (10 g), chopped
- Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp (10 g), chopped
- Tomato sauce – 150 g (2/3 cup)
- Mozzarella cheese – 100 g (1 cup), grated
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Béchamel Sauce:
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour and whisk continuously to form a smooth paste (roux). Cook for about 1 minute.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps.
- Cook the mixture until it thickens and begins to bubble.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Prepare the Meat and Vegetable Filling:
- Heat some oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the minced meat and cook until browned.
- Stir in the grated carrot, finely chopped chili, diced bell pepper, and chopped spring onions. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the tomato sauce, fresh dill, and parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Cook the mixture for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Lasagna Pasta:
- Cook the lasagna pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Beat the eggs in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Spread a thin layer of the béchamel sauce on the bottom of a baking dish.
- Place a layer of lasagna pasta over the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the meat and vegetable mixture over the pasta.
- Pour a small amount of the beaten eggs over the meat mixture.
- Repeat the layers, ending with a layer of lasagna pasta on top.
- Pour the remaining béchamel sauce over the top layer of pasta.
- Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese over the top.
Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Serve:
- Allow the lasagna to cool slightly before serving.
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: 450
- Total Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 25g
This authentic lasagna recipe brings together the best of Italian culinary traditions with a modern twist. The rich layers of pasta, flavorful meat, and vegetable filling, combined with the creamy béchamel sauce and melted mozzarella cheese, create a dish that is both hearty and delectable. Serve it with a side salad and a glass of red wine for a complete and satisfying meal. Buon appetito!