There’s something wonderfully satisfying about creating a lasagne that replaces traditional pasta layers with slices of aubergine. This version is hearty, flavourful, and offers a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish. The combination of rich tomato sauce, creamy ricotta, and melty mozzarella makes for a delicious meal that’s perfect for vegetarians or anyone aiming to increase their vegetable intake. It’s a comforting dish that’s easy to prepare and sure to become a favourite at your table. Explore this recipe to bring a touch of Italy into your home with a healthy and wholesome approach.
To craft this delicious Aubergine Lasagne, you’ll need a selection of fresh and high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Aubergine Lasagna Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 Large aubergines, sliced lengthwise
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 Whole onion, finely chopped
- 2 Garlic cloves, minced
- 400 g Tin of chopped tomatoes
- 1 tsp Tomato purée
- 1 tsp Dried oregano
- 1 tsp Dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 250 g Ricotta cheese
- 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 Egg
- 250 g mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 9 Lasagne sheets
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan)/Gas Mark 6. Lay the aubergine slices on a baking tray, brush with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast in the oven for about 20 minutes until they are soft and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: In a large pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is soft. Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the Parmesan cheese, and the egg. Mix until smooth and well combined. Season with a little salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Lasagne: In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Place 3 lasagne sheets over the sauce. Layer with half of the aubergine slices, half of the ricotta mixture, a third of the mozzarella slices, and a third of the remaining tomato sauce. Repeat with another layer of lasagne sheets, the rest of the aubergine, remaining ricotta mixture, another third of mozzarella, and a third of tomato sauce. Top with the final layer of lasagne sheets, the rest of the tomato sauce, the remaining mozzarella, and sprinkle with the remaining Parmesan
- Bake the Lasagne: Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.
- Allow the lasagne to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a side salad or garlic bread, if desired. Enjoy your homemade aubergine lasagne!
Notes
Serving Ideas
Aubergine Lasagne pairs beautifully with a range of sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich, hearty lasagne. Alternatively, a slice of rustic bread can be perfect for mopping up the savoury tomato sauce. For added freshness, sprinkle chopped fresh basil or parsley on top before serving. Another great side option is roasted vegetables, which can be seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and herbs to create a harmonious meal. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal of your dish but also provide delightful textural and flavour contrasts, making your meal both satisfying and memorable.Making an Aubergine Lasagne with melty mozzarella can be a gratifying culinary journey, especially when it results in a dish that is both comforting and full of flavour. This recipe allows you to transform simple ingredients into a meal that showcases the richness of Italian cuisine while also promoting a healthier lifestyle by incorporating more vegetables. The careful layering of aubergines, ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella, all enveloped in a luscious tomato sauce, creates a symphony of tastes and textures that is sure to delight.
This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit your preferences or dietary requirements. For instance, you can experiment with different types of cheeses or add other vegetables such as spinach or courgettes for an extra layer of flavour and nutrition. For those who prefer a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the tomato sauce can add a subtle kick.
As with many traditional recipes, the key to a successful Aubergine Lasagne lies in the quality of your ingredients and the care taken during preparation. Fresh, firm aubergines, high-quality cheeses, and a well-seasoned tomato sauce are essential for achieving the best results.
Serving Aubergine Lasagne can be a joyful experience, whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or a more formal gathering. Pairing it with complementary sides and beverages, as suggested earlier, can enhance the meal and create a memorable dining experience. The visual appeal of a well-baked lasagne, with its golden, bubbly top, is sure to impress your guests and entice their appetites.
This recipe not only offers a delicious meal but also provides an opportunity to enjoy the process of cooking. The methodical steps involved in preparing and assembling the lasagne allow you to savour each moment, from slicing the aubergines to layering the ingredients. The aroma of the baking lasagne filling your kitchen is a delightful preview of the flavours to come.
Incorporating ingredients from Nicol retailer Limited can add a unique touch to your lasagne, ensuring you have access to high-quality products that can elevate your dish. By experimenting with different variations and making use of fresh, high-quality ingredients, you can make this Aubergine Lasagne your own.
In summary, Aubergine Lasagne with melty mozzarella is a hearty, flavourful dish that brings the essence of Italian cooking into your home. With its rich layers and comforting taste, it’s bound to become a beloved recipe in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the process and the delicious results of this wholesome and satisfying meal.