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Lasagna al Pesto

Lasagna al Pesto: Comforting Layers of Creamy Goodness

Lasagna al Pesto offers a delightful twist on classic lasagna, replacing tomato sauce with a creamy basil pesto béchamel.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Cooling Time 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 oz Lasagna Noodles Use traditional or no-boil noodles.
For the Béchamel
  • 4 tbsp Butter Can be substituted with olive oil.
  • 4 tbsp Flour Opt for gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
  • 2 cups Whole Milk Almond milk can be a dairy-free alternative.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
  • 1 cup Basil Pesto Homemade or quality store-bought works well.
For the Cheese Mixture
  • 15 oz Ricotta Cheese Substitute with cottage cheese for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan touch.
  • 2 Eggs Omit for a vegan variation or use flaxseed meal as a binder.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder Feel free to swap in fresh garlic for a bolder taste.
For the Topping
  • 2 cups Mozzarella Cheese Consider dairy-free mozzarella for a vegan alternative.

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Medium saucepan
  • Large bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and toss with olive oil.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter, stir in flour, and cook to create a roux. Gradually whisk in milk until thickened, then mix in basil pesto.
  3. Combine ricotta, parmesan, eggs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
  4. In a greased baking dish, spread a layer of béchamel, half the noodles, half the cheese mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat, finishing with béchamel and mozzarella.
  5. Preheat oven to 375°F and bake covered for 50 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes until golden.
  6. Cool for 15 minutes before slicing and serving warm, garnished with fresh basil and olive oil.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure noodles are cooked al dente and allow resting time for cleaner slices.

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