Lasagna with cabbage and carrots

Cabbage and Carrot Lasagna – A Vegetarian Delight

Lasagna is a classic and beloved dish, known for its layers of pasta, meat, and rich sauces. Today, I will present a vegetarian version of lasagna with cabbage and carrots, a delicious and healthy combination that can be enjoyed by vegetable lovers as well as those looking for an alternative to traditional meat-based dishes. This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the ingredients used.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Ingredients

- 1 medium head of cabbage
- 500 g carrots
- 1 clove of garlic (crushed)
- 6 sprigs of fresh coriander (chopped)
- 50 g butter (for sautéing)
- Salt, freshly ground pepper, nutmeg (to taste)
- 250 g lasagna sheets (preferably fresh)

For the béchamel sauce

- 3 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 500 ml vegetable broth (can be from cubes, but preferably homemade for better taste)
- 100 ml cream
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan
- 4 tablespoons grated Gouda

Recipe preparation

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables

Start by washing the cabbage well under cold running water. Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and using a sharp knife, slice it into thin strips. The carrots should be peeled, washed, and grated on the large grater. These two vegetables will form the delicious base of your lasagna.

After preparing the cabbage and carrots, blanch them separately in a pot of salted water for about 2 minutes. This step will soften them slightly and prepare them for assembling the lasagna. Once the time is up, drain the vegetables and set them aside.

Step 2: Sautéing the vegetables

In a large skillet, melt 50 g of butter over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic clove and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes golden and fragrant. Then add the chopped coriander, blanched carrots, and cabbage. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes until they are tender but still retain their texture.

Step 3: Preparing the béchamel sauce

In another pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of flour and mix well for 1-2 minutes until a paste (roux) forms. Gradually add the vegetable broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 8 minutes until it thickens.

Remove the sauce from heat and incorporate the cream, mixing well. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste. Finally, add the grated Parmesan and mix until completely melted.

Step 4: Assembling the lasagna

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with a tablespoon of butter, then start assembling. Place a layer of lasagna sheets, followed by a layer of vegetables and a layer of béchamel sauce. Continue alternating layers until all ingredients are used up, ensuring that the last layer is sauce.

To achieve a delicious crust, sprinkle a mixture of grated Parmesan and Gouda on top. These cheeses will not only add a rich flavor but will also create a golden and crispy crust.

Step 5: Baking

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the lasagna is golden and the ingredients are well combined. Allow it to cool slightly before portioning for easier serving.

Serving and suggestions

Cabbage and carrot lasagna is served warm, alongside a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish. This combination is ideal for a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

Nutritional benefits

This recipe is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C and antioxidants, while carrots provide beta-carotene and vitamin A. Additionally, using cream and cheese offers a dose of calcium, essential for bone health.

Possible variations

If you want to personalize the recipe, you can add other vegetables such as zucchini or spinach, or you can try different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or feta. Also, for a spicier variant, you can add some chopped chili pepper to the vegetable mixture.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole grain lasagna sheets?
Yes, you can use whole grain lasagna sheets for a healthier option.

2. How can I store lasagna for the next day?
Lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

3. Can I freeze lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze lasagna before or after baking. Make sure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.

Conclusion

Cabbage and carrot lasagna is an easy-to-make recipe, full of flavor and nutritional benefits. It is a flexible option, perfect for any occasion, combining tradition with innovation. I encourage you to try it and discover the joy of preparing a healthy and tasty dish that will surely impress family and friends. Enjoy every bite and let your imagination create variations of this delicious recipe!

 Ingredients: (for 4 people): 1 head of cabbage, 500g carrots, 1 crushed garlic clove, 6 sprigs of fresh coriander, 50g butter, salt, freshly ground pepper, ground nutmeg, 250g lasagna; For the sauce: 3 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour, 500ml vegetable broth (can be from a cube), 100ml sour cream, 2 tablespoons grated parmesan, 4 tablespoons grated gouda;