Zucchini Lasagna

17/11/2023

Zucchini lasagna is a delicious and fairly simple dish to prepare. I will guide you through the ingredients and the steps of preparation. And, following my culinary nature, I’ll also provide an Italian touch in the process.

Ingredients

Fresh egg lasagna sheets (about 250 g)
Zucchini (3-4 medium)
Bechamel sauce (500 ml, fresh or homemade)
Grated Parmesan cheese (about 100 g)
Mozzarella (200 g, optional)
Extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Nutmeg (optional to enrich the bechamel)
Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Preparation

Start by washing and slicing the zucchini into thin rounds or sticks, depending on your preference.
In a pan, heat a stream of oil and sauté the zucchini until golden and soft. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Meanwhile, if you’re opting for homemade bechamel, melt a knob of butter, stir in flour and let it toast slightly, then pour in hot milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg.
Take a baking dish and grease the bottom with a bit of oil or butter.
Form the first layer of lasagna by laying down the pasta sheets. On top of the sheets, evenly distribute some of the zucchini and sprinkle with a bit of Parmesan and pieces of mozzarella if using.
Cover with some bechamel and proceed to form the second layer of lasagna.
Repeat the layering process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a final layer of bechamel and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180 °C for about 30-40 minutes, or until the surface is golden and crispy.
Allow the lasagna to rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with basil leaves for a touch of freshness and color.

Curiosity

Zucchini lasagna is a versatile dish that also satisfies those following a vegetarian diet. Moreover, you can play with different cheeses or add ingredients such as mushrooms or chard to vary the taste and nutritional content. In Italy, Bolognese lasagna is very famous, but there are many regional variations that use seasonal ingredients to create unique and delicious recipes, like this zucchini lasagna.

Enjoy your meal!