Description
Smoky Veggie Lentil Lasagna is a hearty, smoky, plant-based comfort dish layered with lentils, vegetables, rich tomato sauce, and creamy cheese. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
1 cup green or brown lentils
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
1 zucchini, diced
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
1½ cups ricotta cheese (or plant-based ricotta)
1 egg (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or basil
9–12 lasagna noodles (regular or oven-ready)
2 cups shredded mozzarella (or dairy-free alternative)
¼ cup grated Parmesan (optional)
Instructions
1. Rinse lentils and cook in simmering water for 20–25 minutes until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sauté onion until soft, then add garlic, carrot, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook until tender.
3. Stir in cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–15 minutes until thick.
4. In a bowl, mix ricotta, egg (if using), and fresh herbs until smooth.
5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions if not using oven-ready.
6. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish.
7. Layer noodles, sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella. Repeat layers.
8. Finish with remaining sauce and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
9. Cover with foil and bake 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake 15–20 minutes until bubbly.
10. Rest 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Notes
For a vegan version, use plant-based ricotta and mozzarella and omit the egg.
Add mushrooms or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
Let the lasagna rest before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Whole wheat noodles can be used for added fiber.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 45mg