- **Asparagus or Spinach Lasagne Pasta Ingredients**:
- Fresh asparagus (or fresh spinach leaves)
- Keyword: fresh asparagus
- Keyword: fresh spinach
- Whole wheat lasagne noodles
- Keyword: whole wheat pasta
- Keyword: lasagne sheets
- Ricotta cheese
- Keyword: ricotta
- Mozzarella cheese
- Keyword: mozzarella slices
- Keyword: shredded mozzarella
- Parmesan cheese
- Keyword: grated parmesan
- Olive oil
- Keyword: olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Keyword: salt
- Keyword: pepper
- Freshly grated nutmeg (optional)
- Keyword: nutmeg
- Garlic powder or minced garlic (optional)
- Keyword: garlic powder
- Keyword: minced garlic
- Herbs like parsley or basil (optional for garnish)
- Keyword: fresh parsley
- Keyword: fresh basil
Steps
### Asparagus & Spinach Lasagna Pasta Recipe: A Delicious and Healthy Twist
#### Introduction:
Asparagus and spinach lasagna pasta is a delightful, healthy twist on traditional lasagna. This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of asparagus with the mild richness of spinach to create a dish that's both nutritious and satisfying. Perfect for spring or any time you're looking to switch up your classic lasagna.
#### Ingredients:
- **Lasagna noodles**: 12 sheets
- **Asparagus**: 1 bunch (about 8-10 spears)
- **Spinach**: 4 cups fresh, roughly chopped
- **Mozzarella cheese**: 1 cup shredded
- **Provolone cheese**: 1 cup shredded
- **Ricotta cheese**: 2 cups
- **Garlic**: 3 cloves, minced
- **Egg**: 1 large
- **Parsley**: ¼ cup chopped (optional)
- **Salt and pepper**: To taste
#### Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling lasagna noodles
- Baking dish (9x13 inches)
- Mixing bowls
- Ladle or spatula
### Step-by-Step Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Lasagna Noodles
1. **Cook the Noodles**: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Drain well and set aside.
2. **Prep Asparagus**: Trim off the tough ends of the asparagus spears. Rinse them under cold water, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
#### Step 2: Cook the Spinach
1. **Sauté Garlic and Spinach**: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
2. **Combine Ingredients**: Mix cooked asparagus into the spinach mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
#### Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Filling
1. **Mix Ricotta**: In a large bowl, mix together ricotta cheese, egg, and chopped parsley (if using). Add a pinch of salt and black pepper for flavor.
2. **Combine Cheeses**: Stir in shredded mozzarella and provolone cheeses into the ricotta mixture.
#### Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
1. **Layering Process**:
- **First Layer**: Spread a thin layer of ricotta mixture at the bottom of your baking dish.
- **Second Layer**: Place four lasagna noodles on top of the ricotta layer.
- **Third Layer**: Spoon half of the asparagus and spinach mixture over the noodles, spreading evenly.
- **Fourth Layer**: Add another layer of noodles followed by the remaining ricotta mixture.
- **Fifth Layer**: Top with a final layer of noodles and sprinkle on the remaining asparagus and spinach mixture.
2. **Final Layer**: Cover the top layer of noodles with the last of the ricotta filling.
#### Step 5: Baking
1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Bake Lasagna**: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
3. **Cool Down**: Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
### Tips for Success:
- Ensure your ingredients are fresh for optimal flavor.
- You can use other cheeses if preferred; fontina or gouda would also work well.
- For an extra layer of flavor, add some Italian seasoning or red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture.
#### Conclusion:
Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful asparagus and spinach lasagna pasta. It’s a perfect dish for a family dinner or a special occasion where you can impress your guests with its health benefits and delightful taste!