Craving the cheesy, saucy goodness of lasagna but committed to a plant-based lifestyle? This Simple Vegan Lasagna Recipe proves that you can enjoy this Italian comfort food staple without compromising your ethics or your taste buds.
The Secret to a Delicious Vegan Lasagna
The key to a truly satisfying vegan lasagna lies in creating flavorful layers that mimic the richness and texture of the traditional dish. This recipe achieves that with a hearty lentil and mushroom filling that’s bursting with savory depth, a creamy cashew ricotta that adds a touch of tangy indulgence, and a simple yet flavorful tomato sauce that ties everything together.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Lentil Filling:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
For the Vegan Ricotta:
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in boiling water for 30 minutes and drained
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Lasagna:
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 9 lasagna noodles (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese shreds (optional)
Vegan Lasagna Ingredients
Let’s Get Cooking!
Making the Lentil Filling:
- Sauté the veggies: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, mushrooms, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper and cook until the mushrooms have released their liquid and are tender, about 8 minutes.
- Simmer the lentils: Pour in the lentils and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape, about 30 minutes.
Making the Vegan Ricotta:
- Blend it up: While the lentils are simmering, prepare the vegan ricotta. In a high-powered blender, combine all of the ricotta ingredients and blend until completely smooth and creamy. Add a little extra water if needed to reach desired consistency.
Assembling the Lasagna:
- Preheat oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Layer it up: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with 3 lasagna noodles, followed by half of the lentil filling, and half of the vegan ricotta. Repeat the layers, then top with the remaining 3 lasagna noodles and remaining tomato sauce.
- Cheese, please! (Optional): If desired, sprinkle the top with vegan mozzarella cheese shreds.
Layering Vegan Lasagna
Baking the Lasagna:
- Bake: Cover the lasagna tightly with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Get that cheesy top: Uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly (if using).
- Rest: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Baked Vegan Lasagna
Tips for Lasagna Perfection
- Lentil Power: “Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making them a hearty and satisfying addition to this lasagna,” says Chef Emily Carter, author of “The Vegan Table.” “Feel free to experiment with different types of lentils for subtle flavor variations.”
- Cashew Creaminess: Be sure to soak the cashews for at least 30 minutes to ensure a perfectly smooth and creamy ricotta texture.
- No-Boil Noodles: Using no-boil lasagna noodles will save you time and effort. Just be sure to use a generous amount of sauce to ensure they cook through properly.
- Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a touch of heat.
Simple Vegan Lasagna: FAQs
Can I freeze vegan lasagna?
Yes! This lasagna freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake in a preheated 350°F oven until heated through.
What can I serve with vegan lasagna?
This lasagna pairs perfectly with a simple side salad, roasted vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread.
Can I make this lasagna gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the regular lasagna noodles for gluten-free lasagna noodles.
Can I use a different type of mushroom?
Feel free to use your favorite variety of mushroom. Shiitake mushrooms would add a wonderful earthy flavor, while portobello mushrooms would provide a meaty texture.
How do I store leftover vegan lasagna?
Store leftover lasagna in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
A Taste of Italy, Made Vegan
This simple vegan lasagna recipe proves that you don’t need meat or dairy to enjoy a comforting and delicious meal. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s sure to become a new family favorite. For more delicious and easy vegan recipes, be sure to explore our vegan main dish recipes. Looking for more Italian inspiration? You’ll love our collection of vegan Italian food recipes. And if you’re looking for other ways to enjoy the creamy goodness of vegan ricotta, be sure to check out our recipe for vegan lasagna white sauce or try your hand at our flavorful vegan spaghetti sauce recipe. Don’t forget to explore our vegan ricotta cheese recipe for even more culinary inspiration. Buon appetito!
