This roasted eggplant lasagna is a delicious vegetarian dish that is perfect for a hearty family dinner. Layers of roasted eggplant, ricotta cheese, marinara sauce, and melted cheese come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. The roasted eggplant adds a smoky and slightly sweet flavor, while the creamy ricotta balances out the richness of the marinara sauce. Whether you're a vegetarian or just looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this recipe is sure to please. Serve it with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggplants
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400F (200C).
- Slice the eggplants into 1/4-inch thick slices.
- Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil.
- Roast the eggplant slices in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly browned.
- While the eggplant is roasting, prepare the ricotta cheese mixture. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a baking dish, spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Place a layer of roasted eggplant slices on top of the marinara sauce.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta cheese mixture over the eggplant slices.
- Sprinkle a layer of shredded mozzarella cheese over the ricotta cheese mixture.
- Repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used, ending with a layer of marinara sauce on top. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Cut into squares and enjoy!
Interesting Facts
Eggplant is a member of the nightshade family, along with tomatoes and potatoes.
Roasting the eggplant slices before assembling the lasagna brings out their natural sweetness and adds a smoky flavor to the dish.
Lasagna originated in Italy and has become a popular dish in many countries around the world.
The word 'lasagna' refers to both the dish itself and the wide, flat pasta noodles used in its preparation.