Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna

Low-Calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna Recipe from Italy | Spinach, Ricotta Cheese, Turkey, Spaghetti Sauce, Mozzarella, Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 50 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

This Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna recipe is a delicious and healthy twist on a classic comfort food dish. Packed with protein and nutrients, this lasagna is perfect for a satisfying meal that won't weigh you down.

History

Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to the Middle Ages. Originally made with layers of pasta, cheese, and meat, lasagna has evolved over the years to include a variety of ingredients and flavors. This low-calorie version swaps out traditional high-fat ingredients for healthier alternatives, making it a guilt-free option for those looking to indulge without the extra calories.

Ingredients

30 oz (850 g) of frozen chopped spinach (3 boxes)
16 oz (454 g) of low-fat ricotta cheese
2 cups of chopped cooked turkey
2 cups or 15 oz (425 g) of jar spaghetti sauce
8 oz (227 g) of low-fat mozzarella cheese, sliced
0.25 cup of grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Thaw the spinach and squeeze out any liquid.
Place approximately 0.33 of the spinach in the bottom of a lightly oiled casserole dish.
Spread half of the ricotta cheese over the spinach.
Sprinkle half of the turkey on top.
Spoon half of the spaghetti sauce over the turkey.
Layer half of the mozzarella slices on top.
Repeat the layering process with the remaining 0.33 of spinach, the rest of the ricotta cheese, the remaining turkey, the remaining spaghetti sauce, and the remaining mozzarella.
Finish with the final third of spinach.
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 45 to 50 minutes or until the top is browned.

Variations

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for the chopped cooked turkey.
Add in your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, for extra flavor and nutrients.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles for a healthier twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the thawed spinach to prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery.

- Layering the ingredients evenly will ensure that each bite is packed with flavor.

- Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the flavors to meld together before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Layering the ingredients evenly and baking the lasagna at a moderate temperature ensures that the flavors meld together perfectly.

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You can swap out the turkey for ground beef or tofu, or use different types of cheese for a unique flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the finished lasagna with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

This Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna pairs well with a light and crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of this Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of this Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna contains approximately 30 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (pasta), so it may not be suitable for those with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

This Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

This Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna is a nutritious and delicious meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein and vitamins, this lasagna is a guilt-free option for those looking to enjoy a classic comfort food dish without the extra calories.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a rainy day in the small town where I grew up, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, my eyes landed on a recipe for Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna, and I knew I had to try it.

The recipe called for lean ground turkey, fresh spinach, low-fat cheese, and whole wheat noodles. It seemed like the perfect combination of flavors and ingredients to create a healthier version of a classic comfort food dish. I could already imagine the warm, cheesy layers of lasagna melting in my mouth with each bite.

I decided to make the lasagna for my family that night, and as I gathered the ingredients and started cooking, I couldn't help but think back to all the recipes I had learned over the years. From my mother's famous meatloaf to my aunt's decadent chocolate cake, I had been fortunate enough to have so many talented cooks in my life who had shared their culinary secrets with me.

As the lasagna baked in the oven, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma, I couldn't wait to see the looks on my family's faces when they took their first bite. When I finally served the dish, the response was overwhelmingly positive. My husband raved about how light and flavorful the lasagna was, and my children devoured their plates in record time.

From that moment on, Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna became a regular feature on our dinner table. I would make it for special occasions, family gatherings, and even just on a random weeknight when I wanted to treat my loved ones to a delicious and nutritious meal.

Over the years, I have continued to tweak and perfect the recipe, adding my own personal touches and experimenting with different ingredients. I have shared the recipe with friends, neighbors, and even strangers who have asked for it after tasting a slice of my lasagna at a potluck or party.

One of my fondest memories involving this recipe was when my daughter asked me to teach her how to make it. She had recently moved out on her own and was eager to learn how to cook some of her favorite dishes from home. As we stood side by side in the kitchen, chopping vegetables and layering noodles, I felt a sense of pride and joy knowing that I was passing down a cherished family recipe to the next generation.

As time passed and my daughter grew more confident in her cooking abilities, she started adding her own twist to the lasagna recipe. She would experiment with different spices, swap out ingredients, and even create her own variations of the dish. It filled my heart with happiness to see her take something that I had taught her and make it her own.

Now, whenever my daughter comes over for dinner, we often find ourselves in the kitchen together, cooking up a storm and sharing stories about our day. The smell of Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna wafting through the air is a comforting reminder of the bond we share and the memories we have created together.

As I sit here, reflecting on the journey that led me to discover this wonderful recipe, I am filled with gratitude for all the people who have influenced my love of cooking. From my grandmother who first taught me how to knead dough and simmer sauces, to my daughter who continues to inspire me with her creativity and passion in the kitchen, I am truly blessed to have such a rich culinary heritage.

Low-calorie Turkey-Spinach Lasagna is more than just a recipe to me - it is a symbol of love, family, and tradition. It is a reminder of the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with the ones you care about most. And it is a testament to the power of food to bring people together, nourish the body and soul, and create lasting memories that will be treasured for generations to come.