Spinach and Ricotta Lasagne – A Vegetarian Delight
Let's talk about a classic dish with a fresh, leafy twist—Spinach and Ricotta Lasagne. This recipe is great for adding some green goodness to your meals. With creamy sauce, nutritious spinach, and tender pasta layers, it's a mouth-watering combo that looks and tastes amazing. If you're up for a comforting yet nutritious meal, give this one a go!
Ingredients
- 70g Unsalted butter
- 50g Plain flour
- 800ml Milk
- 1 Fresh bay leaf
- 800g Spinach
- 200g Ricotta cheese
- 1 Whole nutmeg, for grating
- 300g Fresh lasagne sheets
- 100g Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Method
- Prepare Your Tools: Preheat your oven to a toasty 190°C/375°F/gas 5, setting the stage for what's to come.
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Craft the Sauce: Melt 50g of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking fervently for a minute or two. Begin to pour in the milk gradually, continuing to whisk until you have a silky, smooth sauce before you. Season lovingly with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Throw in the bay leaf for good luck, and simmer gently for five minutes before retiring the heat.
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Wilt the Spinach: Discard any tough stalks from your spinach. Melt the rest of the butter (20g) in another pan, laying in the spinach to gently wilt under a covered lid. Once collapsed, drain well and tenderly squeeze out any excess liquid when it's cool enough to handle. Chopping comes next, followed by a marriage of spinach, ricotta, a spoonful of your white sauce, and a gracious dusting of nutmeg. Don't forget to season!
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Layer: In a baking dish, begin by laying down lasagne sheets, followed by a cascade of white sauce and your verdant spinach mixture. Parmesan cheese is a must on each layer. The grand finale should be a lasagne sheet crowned with a final layer of sauce and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.
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Bake to Perfection: Place the dish in your prepped oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until it's bubbling with a golden tan.
Nutritional Note
This delightful lasagne serves up six portions and can be ready in about 50 minutes. It's the perfect balance of comfort and nourishment that speaks to both beginners and the experienced in the kitchen!
Wine Pairing
This lasagne pairs exquisitely with the vibrant notes of an Eguren Ugarte White Crianza 2020 Vegan White Wine. The crispness complements the creamy textures and nutty undertones of this dish.
Enjoy crafting this spinach-laden culinary masterpiece in your kitchen, and don't forget to share the love—and perhaps a slice or two—with friends and family. Bon appétit!