Lasagna has always been one of my favorite comfort foods. The layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce create a deliciously satisfying dish that warms my heart. Recently, I decided to mix things up and try a Lasagna With Spinach and Wild Mushrooms Recipe. The combination of earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach adds a unique twist to the classic Italian dish.
Ingredients for Lasagna With Spinach and Wild Mushrooms
Before I start cooking, I always make sure to gather all my ingredients. For this recipe, you will need the following:
Lasagna Ingredients:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 2 cups wild mushrooms, sliced (like shiitake, oyster, or chanterelles)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 15 oz ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How to Make Lasagna With Spinach and Wild Mushrooms
Making this lasagna is a fun and rewarding experience. The first step is to prepare the ingredients. I like to sauté the mushrooms and spinach to bring out their flavors.
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and sauté until they are tender. Finally, stir in the chopped spinach until wilted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix the Cheese Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until smooth.
Layering the Lasagna
Layering is where the magic happens! I love this part because I can see the dish come together.
- Start with Sauce: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. This helps prevent the noodles from sticking.
- Add Noodles: Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread the Cheese Mixture: Spoon half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, spreading it evenly.
- Add Vegetables: Next, add half of the sautéed spinach and mushroom mixture on top of the cheese.
- More Sauce: Pour a layer of marinara sauce over the vegetables. Sprinkle a little mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process two more times, finishing with noodles, marinara sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking the Lasagna
Now that the lasagna is layered, it’s time to bake it. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover with Foil: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent the cheese from burning. Bake for 25 minutes.
- Uncover and Brown: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the lasagna cool for about 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps the layers set and makes serving easier.
Tips for Lasagna With Spinach and Wild Mushrooms
Over the years, I have learned a few tips that help make my lasagna even better. Here are some of my favorites:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spinach and wild mushrooms enhance the flavor of the dish. If you can find them, use them!
- Let It Rest: Allowing the lasagna to cool slightly before cutting helps maintain its shape.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix different cheeses like goat cheese or fontina for added flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Just bake it before serving.
Serving Lasagna With Spinach and Wild Mushrooms
When it comes to serving, I love to pair my lasagna with a simple salad or garlic bread. Here are a few ideas:
- Green Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagna.
- Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread is always a hit. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
- Red Wine: A glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot, pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish.
Storing Leftover Lasagna
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Lasagna keeps well and can be enjoyed later.
- Refrigerate: Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.
- Freezing: You can also freeze portions for later. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
- Reheating: To reheat, place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Cover with foil to prevent drying out.
Nutritional Information
Eating well is important, but I believe in enjoying food too. Here’s a rough idea of the nutritional content per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 400-500 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
Why You Will Love Lasagna With Spinach and Wild Mushrooms
This Lasagna With Spinach and Wild Mushrooms Recipe is a delightful twist on a classic dish. The combination of flavors is simply irresistible.
The creamy ricotta, melted mozzarella, and savory mushrooms create a comforting meal that is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
Cooking this lasagna has been a joyful experience for me. From the preparation to the first bite, it brings back memories of family dinners and laughter around the table.