Vegetarian Mediterranean Lasagna

"A fresh, veggie-packed twist on classic lasagna with bold Mediterranean flavors."

---

Yield

Serves 8

---

Ingredients

For the Lasagna Layers:

• 9 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 large zucchini, thinly sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 cup black or Kalamata olives, sliced
• 1 cup artichoke hearts, chopped
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

---

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and onion until softened. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Set aside.

---

Step 2: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese, beaten egg, feta cheese, oregano, basil, black pepper, and salt. Stir until well combined.

---

Step 3: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

---

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish.
3. Add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by a layer of ricotta mixture, spinach, zucchini slices, bell peppers, olives, and artichokes.
4. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, then add a layer of tomato sauce.
5. Repeat the layers, ending with tomato sauce and a generous topping of mozzarella cheese.

---

Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

---

Step 6: Serve
Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve warm.

---

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Calories: 380 | Protein: 16g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fiber: 5g | Net Carbohydrates: 30g | Fat: 19g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Cholesterol: 55mg | Sodium: 580mg | Sugars: 8g | Glycemic Index: Medium

This Vegetarian Mediterranean Lasagna features layers of fresh veggies, creamy ricotta, and a zesty tomato sauce for a healthy, flavorful twist on the classic dish.