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Lasagna with radicchio, chestnut cream, and speck

17/11/2023

I can provide you with a lasagna recipe that embraces the winter flavors of radicchio, chestnut cream, and speck, a rich and comforting combination. Here are the ingredients you will need and the instructions to prepare the dish.

Ingredients

  • 250 g of lasagna noodles (preferably egg-based)
  • 300 g of red radicchio
  • 200 g of thinly sliced speck
  • 300 g of chestnuts (already cooked and peeled)
  • 400 ml of béchamel sauce
  • 1 small onion
  • 100 ml of milk
  • 50 ml of heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • 100 g of grated Parmesan cheese for grating

Preparation

  1. Start by preparing the chestnut cream. In a blender, puree the cooked chestnuts adding milk gradually to achieve a smooth and uniform cream. If necessary, add a bit of heavy cream to reach the desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Wash and finely slice the radicchio. In a pan, sauté the chopped onion with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, then add the sliced radicchio and let it sauté until it becomes soft. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
  3. Cut the speck into strips or cubes and add it to the radicchio, letting it flavor for a few minutes.
  4. Prepare the béchamel sauce following your favorite recipe or by heating the ready-made one. Season the béchamel with grated nutmeg, if liked.
  5. To assemble the lasagne, grease the bottom of a baking dish with some béchamel sauce. Place a first layer of lasagna sheets, then distribute a part of the chestnut cream, some of the radicchio with speck, and finally a sprinkle of Parmesan. Continue alternating layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with béchamel and Parmesan.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes or until the surface becomes golden and crispy.
  7. Let the lasagne rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the layers to settle.

Curiosity

Chestnuts are a traditional ingredient in autumn and winter, and the combination with radicchio creates a balance between sweet and bitter that is particularly tasty. The speck, with its smoky flavor, adds depth to the dish. This recipe is ideal for a special dinner or festive occasion when you wish to offer something different from the classic lasagna.

Enjoy your meal, and I hope these lasagne give you a unique taste experience!

Lasagna with radicchio, chestnut cream, and speck