Spinach Lasagna roll-ups are a delightful, healthy twist to the traditional lasagna dish, presenting a more elegant preparation and portion-controlled servings. Bursting with the goodness of spinach and creamy cheese, this recipe offers a simpler way to enjoy the flavors of a classic lasagna without the need for layering a casserole dish. Here's a step-by-step instructional guide on how to roll up and bake your way to a comforting, vegetarian meal that's perfect for casual family dinners or a special gathering.
Ingredients List
Lasagna Roll-Ups:
- 8 uncooked lasagna noodles
- 8 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 15-ounce container part-skim ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce or white sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
For a White Sauce Option:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk (any kind)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Preparation Steps
1. Cooking The Lasagna Noodles
- Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Boil a large pot of water and cook your lasagna noodles according to package directions, usually about 7-8 minutes until al dente.
- While the noodles are cooking, prepare a large bowl of iced water. Once the noodles are cooked, drain and immediately transfer them to the ice water. This shocks them, stopping the cooking process and preventing them from sticking together.
- Once cooled, place the noodles on a clean kitchen towel to dry and set aside.
2. Preparing the Spinach and Cheese Filling
- If using fresh spinach, chop it finely. If opting for frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly.
- In a large bowl, combine the ricotta, Parmesan, beaten egg, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed, then add in the chopped or thawed spinach.
- The filling should be thick and spreadable. Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Set aside.
3. Assembling The Roll Ups
- Take one lasagna noodle and lay it flat on a clean surface. Spread an even layer of the spinach and cheese filling over the length of the noodle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Carefully roll the noodles from one end to the other and place the roll seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Repeat with the remaining noodles and filling, arranging the rolls side by side in the baking dish.
4. Making the Marinara or White Sauce
If using a white sauce:
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, until bubbly.
- Gradually whisk in the milk. Continue cooking and stirring constantly until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle boil, about 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
If using marinara sauce:
- Warm the marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat.
Rolling and Baking
- Once your rolls are assembled and your sauce is ready, spoon the sauce on top of the roll-ups, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired.
Enjoy these delicious, healthy Spinach Lasagna rolls as a main course accompanied by a garden salad or crusty bread. They make a beautiful addition to any dinner table, and their individual serving sizes make for an elegant presentation. Whether you're a home cook looking for an easy, nutritious meal or a vegetarian foodie in search of a new staple, this flavorful recipe is sure to delight!
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