Tomato Basil Lasagna

Tomato Basil Lasagna Recipe - Italian Dish with Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 6

Introduction

Tomato Basil Lasagna is a classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy cheese in a delicious and comforting baked pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion, and is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

History

Lasagna is a traditional Italian dish that dates back to ancient Rome. The modern version of lasagna, with layers of pasta, cheese, and tomato sauce, is thought to have originated in the region of Emilia-Romagna in Northern Italy. The addition of fresh basil to the dish adds a fragrant and herbaceous flavor that complements the rich tomato sauce and creamy cheese.

Ingredients

1 box (10 oz / 283 g) no-cook lasagna noodles
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb (454 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
2 x 14.5 oz (411 g) cans diced tomatoes, drained well
1 tsp minced garlic
1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, divided
0.25 cup dry bread crumbs
olive oil

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine the mozzarella, drained tomatoes, garlic, basil, olive oil, and 0.67 cup of grated Parmesan. Set aside.
Cook several noodles at a time, cooking for 2 minutes.
Drain the noodles well.
Coat the bottom of a 9 x 13 glass baking dish with olive oil.
Line the bottom of the pan with noodles and cover with a layer of the mozzarella mixture.
Repeat the layers until all noodles and filling are used, ending with a layer of pasta.
Sprinkle the top with the remaining 0.33 cup of Parmesan cheese, 0.25 cup of bread crumbs, and a light drizzle of olive oil.
Bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes, until bubbly and the top is golden.
Allow it to sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations

Add cooked ground beef or Italian sausage to the cheese mixture for a meaty version of the lasagna.
Use different types of cheese, such as ricotta or fontina, for a unique flavor profile.
Add roasted vegetables, such as zucchini or eggplant, to the layers for a vegetarian option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the canned tomatoes well before using them in the recipe to prevent the lasagna from becoming too watery.

- Tearing the fresh basil leaves instead of chopping them helps release their natural oils and flavor.

- Letting the lasagna sit for 10 minutes after baking allows it to set and makes it easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tomato Basil Lasagna with a side salad and garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Pre-cooking the noodles is not necessary for this recipe, as the noodles will cook perfectly in the oven as the lasagna bakes.

- Layering the ingredients evenly and pressing down gently between layers helps the lasagna hold together when sliced.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten-free noodles for a gluten-free version of the lasagna.

- Substitute fresh tomatoes for the canned tomatoes for a fresher flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Tomato Basil Lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the top of the lasagna with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Tomato Basil Lasagna with a glass of Chianti or Sangiovese wine for a classic Italian pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Tomato Basil Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover the dish with foil and bake in a 350°F (177°C) oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tomato Basil Lasagna contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tomato Basil Lasagna contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tomato Basil Lasagna contains approximately 20 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Tomato Basil Lasagna contains approximately 25 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tomato Basil Lasagna is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese) and wheat (noodles), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Tomato Basil Lasagna is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Tomato Basil Lasagna is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or special occasion. With layers of pasta, cheese, tomatoes, and fresh basil, this lasagna is sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, the kind of day where the sun shines brightly and the birds sing sweetly in the trees. I was visiting my dear friend Anna, a woman who was known in our small town for her incredible cooking skills. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping on tea and catching up on old times, Anna suddenly jumped up from her chair and disappeared into her pantry.

She emerged a few moments later, clutching a worn and stained recipe card in her hand. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she handed it to me and said, "I think you'll enjoy this one, my dear. It's a recipe for my famous Tomato Basil Lasagna."

I couldn't contain my excitement as I read over the ingredients and instructions. The combination of ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy cheese sounded like a match made in heaven. I knew I had to try my hand at making this dish as soon as possible.

As I gathered the ingredients and prepared the lasagna, I couldn't help but reflect on the many recipes I had learned over the years. Some had been passed down from generation to generation in my family, while others had been shared with me by friends and neighbors. Each recipe held a special place in my heart, a connection to the people and places that had shaped my love for cooking.

As the lasagna baked in the oven, filling my kitchen with the mouthwatering aroma of tomatoes and herbs, I felt a sense of anticipation building within me. I knew that this dish would be something truly special, a new addition to my repertoire of beloved recipes.

When the lasagna was finally ready, I couldn't wait to dig in. The first bite was pure bliss - the flavors of the tomatoes, basil, and cheese melding together in perfect harmony. I savored each mouthful, feeling grateful for the gift of this recipe and the memories it would create.

I shared the Tomato Basil Lasagna with my family and friends, and it quickly became a favorite among them. They marveled at the delicious combination of flavors and asked for the recipe so they could make it at home. I was happy to pass it along, knowing that it would bring joy to others just as it had brought joy to me.

In the years that followed, I continued to make the Tomato Basil Lasagna whenever I wanted to create a special meal for my loved ones. It became a staple at family gatherings and holiday celebrations, a dish that brought us together around the table in laughter and love.

As I look back on that fateful day in Anna's kitchen, I can't help but smile at the serendipity of finding such a wonderful recipe. It reminds me of the power of food to connect us to our past and present, to nourish both body and soul. And it reminds me of the joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal with the ones we hold dear.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a comforting and flavorful dish to serve to your family and friends, look no further than my Tomato Basil Lasagna. It may just become a beloved recipe in your own kitchen, a reminder of the joy that comes from good food and good company.