Grilled Vegetable Lasagna is a fresh and hearty take on the classic dish, incorporating layers of smoky, grilled vegetables with creamy ricotta, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s perfect for a light, summer dinner or a hearty vegetarian meal. The grilling adds a smoky depth to the vegetables, making this dish deliciously unique.
Ingredients:
For the grilled vegetables:
- 1 large zucchini, sliced lengthwise
- 1 large yellow squash, sliced lengthwise
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into rounds
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Brush the sliced vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill the vegetables: Grill the zucchini, yellow squash, eggplant, and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes per side, until tender and lightly charred. Remove from the grill and set aside to cool slightly.
- Prepare the ricotta mixture: In a medium bowl, mix the ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Assemble the lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer 3 lasagna noodles on top. Add a layer of grilled vegetables, followed by dollops of the ricotta mixture, and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers: noodles, vegetables, ricotta, mozzarella, and marinara sauce until you’ve used all ingredients, finishing with a layer of marinara and mozzarella on top.
- Bake the lasagna: Cover the lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil and serve warm.
This Grilled Vegetable Lasagna is a wonderful, smoky, and cheesy dish perfect for any occasion. The grilled vegetables add a depth of flavor that takes this vegetarian lasagna to the next level!
