Introduction
This Thanksgiving, why not bring a delightful twist to your table with our Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bake? This dish perfectly embodies the comforting flavors of the season while offering a nutritious flair. Layered with tender zucchini, earthy mushrooms, and vibrant spinach, this veggie-packed lasagna alternative will have everyone coming back for seconds. With creamy cottage cheese and a hint of garlic, it’s both delicious and wholesome, making it a perfect addition to your holiday spread!
Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 16 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1½ cups low fat cottage cheese (2%)
- ½ cup nonfat Greek yogurt
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly oil a 9×9 inch baking dish, ensuring a non-stick surface for our delicious layers.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the sliced mushrooms until they are beautifully browned and their moisture has evaporated. Add in the chopped spinach and minced garlic, cooking just until the spinach wilts. Season generously with salt and pepper to elevate the flavors.
- In a separate bowl, stir together the cottage cheese and Greek yogurt until you achieve a creamy consistency that will serve as a luscious white sauce.
- It’s time to create the layers! Start by adding a layer of zucchini slices at the bottom of your prepared dish. Follow this with a thin layer of the creamy sauce, then add the sautéed mushroom and spinach mixture. Sprinkle a bit of mozzarella and Parmesan over this layer. Repeat this process to form 3–4 layers, creating a symphony of colors and textures.
- Top with any remaining sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan. Cover the dish with foil to keep moisture in, and bake for 25 minutes. After this time, uncover and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown and the layers are cooked through. Allow to rest for 10 minutes before slicing, so each piece comes out clean and tidy!
Notes or Tips
For added flavor, consider incorporating fresh herbs such as basil or oregano in your layers. This dish can also be made ahead of time; simply assemble it and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for a fresh, warm meal that everyone will love!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes sautéing to enhance the flavor of the mushrooms and spinach, creating a rich base for our lasagna. Layering is key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors and textures, while allowing the dish to bake into a cohesive delight. Resting the lasagna after baking is crucial; it helps set the layers for beautifully clean slices.
FAQ
Can I substitute other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or roasted eggplant, to customize the dish to your liking.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check any packaged ingredients if you want to confirm they meet your dietary needs.
Conclusion
The Cottage Cheese Lasagna Bake is a delightful, hearty dish that captures the spirit of Thanksgiving while introducing a healthier twist. Its layers of vibrant veggies, creamy sauce, and gooey cheese create a comforting meal that will surely warm your heart and impress your guests. Enjoy every delightful bite and the wonderful company that accompanies it!