Vegetarian Lasagna with Zucchini and Carrots

Vegetarian lasagna with zucchini and carrots is a fresh and light alternative to the classic lasagna alla bolognese. Here’s how you might make it:

Ingredients

  • 250 g of lasagna sheets (preferably fresh)
  • 3 medium zucchinis
  • 3 medium carrots
  • 250 g of ricotta cheese
  • 400 ml of béchamel sauce
  • 150 g of shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Nutmeg to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for gratin

Preparation

  1. Start by washing and slicing the zucchini into rounds or sticks, according to your preference.
  2. Peel the carrots and slice them into rounds or julienne them.
  3. In a non-stick pan, heat a little extra virgin olive oil and sauté zucchini and carrots until they are slightly golden, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Prepare the béchamel sauce by heating milk in a saucepan and adding sifted flour, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the béchamel to a boil and keep stirring until it reaches a creamy consistency. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
  5. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta with a pinch of salt and pepper until creamy.
  6. Take a baking dish and spread a light layer of béchamel sauce on the bottom.
  7. Lay down a first layer of lasagna sheets, cover with some of the ricotta mixture, sautéed vegetables, a handful of shredded mozzarella, and some béchamel sauce.
  8. Repeat the process for as many layers as you wish (usually 3-4), making sure to finish with a layer of lasagna sheets covered with béchamel and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
  9. Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and bake the lasagna for about 25-30 minutes or until the surface is golden brown and crispy.
  10. Let the lasagna sit for a few minutes before serving.

Curiosity

In the vegetarian version of lasagna, the use of fresh vegetables and ricotta makes the dish lighter compared to the classic version with meat sauce. Lasagna is a versatile dish that lends itself to numerous variations, and this version is perfect for those looking for a meatless alternative that is equally tasty and satisfying.

Vegetarian Lasagna with Zucchini and Carrots