A vegetarian lasagna is a great way to use end of summer vegetables. This bright tasting lasagna features homemade noodles, zucchini, tomato, and bell pepper. The noodles can easily be hand rolled and baked directly into the lasagna dish or you can use storebought.
2zucchini squashMexican, or yellow squash - thinly sliced lengthwise
1ozfresh tarragonleaves torn
2ozfresh basilleaves torn
saltfor seasoning
red pepper flakesfor seasoning
1largetomatothinly sliced
1bell pepperthinly sliced
1tbspolive oilextra virgin
1cupricotta cheese
4ozmozzarella cheese
Instructions
Make the Pasta
Pile the flour on a clean work surface and make a well in the center for the egg. Mix the flour a bit at a time with the egg and add the water a little bit at a time. Add the salt and knead by hand for a couple minutes to form a smooth dough. Wrap tightly with plastic wrap.
Using a pasta machine or rolling pin, tear off a small piece of the dough. Dust with flour and insert into the machine at the largest setting. Fold in half and repeat. Adjust to a higher setting so that the dough sheet gets even thinner. Run through, fold, and run through again. Repeat with the remaining dough.
Make the Summer Lasagna
Preheat the oven to 425°F.
Pour a bit of marinara in the bottom of a casserole dish to prevent the noodles from sticking. Add a layer of fresh noodles* and spread about 1/4 cup marinara on top. Add a layer of zucchini, fresh herbs, and sprinkle with a large pinch of salt and red pepper flakes.
Continue to layer with the ricotta, noodles, sauce, and vegetables.
For the final layer, top with noodles and drizzle with olive oil. Break the mozzarella into small pieces and spread over the top. Cover loosely (this is so steam can escape) with foil and roast for 30 minutes, covered. Remove the foil and continue to cook for 15 minutes.
Video
Notes
Lasagna Noodles:
For homemade noodles, there's no cooking required. They will steam cook inside the lasagna as it roasts.For store bought noodles labeled "oven ready" - do not boil. These noodles can also be used dry and will cook as they roast.All other store bought lasagna noodles, follow the package instructions. You may need to boil until al dente, then use in this recipe.
Homemade Pasta:
Anyone with a rolling pin can make lasagna noodles. That said, if you have a stand mixer with a flat pasta attachment, then it will be a breeze. Just keep your work surface clean and dust with flour to prevent the noodles from sticking together.