Embrace the flavors of the season with this Harvest Vegetable Lasagna. Packed with garden-fresh vegetables and creamy cheeses, it’s a comforting dish that celebrates fall’s bounty. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering.
The heart of this dish lies in the vegetables: they add texture, flavor, and a touch of sweetness. The combination of red bell pepper, zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, and mushrooms not only provides a variety of nutrients but also a delightful medley of colors. The use of ricotta cheese gives the lasagna a creamy, tangy layer, while Parmesan and mozzarella contribute to its rich, cheesy goodness. A well-seasoned marinara sauce ties everything together with its robust, savory base.
This Harvest Vegetable Lasagna pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. Add some crusty bread on the side to soak up any extra sauce. A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. As that's warming up, grab a large pan and heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the garlic and let it sauté for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Next, add your chopped red bell pepper, sliced zucchini, yellow squash, cubed eggplant, and sliced mushrooms. Season them with a dash of salt and pepper. Cook everything for about 7-10 minutes until the veggies are tender, then set them aside.
Meanwhile, cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. Drain them and set them aside as well. In a medium bowl, mix together the ricotta cheese, Parmesan, basil, parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Now, take a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom. Lay down three lasagna noodles, then spread half of the ricotta mixture over them. Top with half of the vegetable mixture, and sprinkle on 1 cup of mozzarella. Repeat these layers with the remaining ingredients. Finish by topping with the rest of the marinara sauce and mozzarella.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving to allow the layers to set nicely.