Lasagna is one of the most beloved comfort foods worldwide, known for its rich layers of pasta, creamy cheese, and flavorful sauces. While the traditional Italian version is typically made with meat and a tomato-based sauce, this Spinach & Mushroom Mediterranean Lasagna offers a healthier, vegetarian alternative packed with Mediterranean flavors. The combination of fresh spinach, earthy mushrooms, and creamy cheeses creates a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even special occasions when you want to serve something elegant yet comforting. The Mediterranean twist comes from the use of olive oil, fresh herbs, and Parmesan cheese, which enhance the overall taste and add a sophisticated depth of flavor. Plus, with its wholesome ingredients, this lasagna is a great way to sneak in extra vegetables without compromising on taste. Let’s dive into this Spinach & Mushroom Mediterranean Lasagna recipe and discover how to make this mouthwatering dish from scratch!
Ingredients for Spinach & Mushroom Mediterranean Lasagna
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin for a richer taste)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 10 oz mushrooms, sliced (button, cremini, or portobello work well)
- 10 oz fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp dried basil (or 1 tbsp fresh basil)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Lasagna Layers:
- 2 cups ricotta cheese (or cottage cheese for a lighter option)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, beaten (helps bind the cheese mixture)
- 1 tsp dried oregano (or 1 tbsp fresh oregano)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8-10 lasagna noodles (whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives work too)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Instructions – How to Make Spinach & Mushroom Mediterranean Lasagna
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Cook the Noodles
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook them according to the package instructions. Drain the noodles and set them aside. To prevent them from sticking, you can toss them with a little olive oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Spinach & Mushroom Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes).
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become tender (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Mix in Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Ricotta Mixture
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well until you get a smooth and creamy mixture.
Step 4: Assemble the Lasagna
- Take a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread a thin layer of the spinach & mushroom sauce at the bottom.
- Lay three or four cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles.
- Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
- Repeat the layering process: sauce → noodles → ricotta → mozzarella, until all ingredients are used up.
- Finish with a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 5: Bake the Lasagna
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
- Let the lasagna cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
For an extra Mediterranean touch, garnish the lasagna with fresh basil, extra Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm and enjoy!
Why You Will Love This Spinach & Mushroom Mediterranean Lasagna
✅ Healthier Alternative
This lasagna is packed with nutrients from spinach and mushrooms, making it a great option for those looking for a vegetarian meal rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
✅ Full of Mediterranean Flavors
The combination of olive oil, Parmesan, basil, and oregano brings out the best Mediterranean flavors, making every bite deliciously satisfying.
✅ Perfect for Meal Prep
This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Just reheat and enjoy!
✅ Great for Family Dinners
Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this lasagna is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with a fresh side salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes! If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding it to the sauce.
2. Can I Make This Lasagna Vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute:
- Ricotta cheese → Vegan tofu ricotta
- Mozzarella → Dairy-free shredded cheese
- Egg → 1 tbsp flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water
3. What Can I Serve with This Lasagna?
This dish pairs beautifully with:
- A fresh Greek salad
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette
- A glass of white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay)
4. Can I Freeze This Lasagna?
Yes! Let it cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 25-30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
This Spinach & Mushroom Mediterranean Lasagna is a perfect blend of comfort food and healthy eating. With its creamy, cheesy layers and rich, flavorful vegetables, it’s a wonderful dish to add to your recipe collection. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a simple weeknight meal, this lasagna is sure to impress!
Will you try this Mediterranean-inspired lasagna? Let us know in the comments! 🍽️❤️ #MediterraneanLasagna #VegetarianLasagna #HealthyEating