Imagine a dish that combines the creamy richness of goat cheese, the delicate sweetness of courgettes, and the classic comfort of lasagne - all in one mouthwatering creation! This isn't just another pasta recipe; it's a culinary adventure that transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet masterpiece. Whether you're looking to impress dinner guests or treat yourself to a luxurious meal, this Courgette and Goats Cheese Lasagne promises to elevate your cooking game and transport your palate to the sun-drenched kitchens of Italy.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 courgettes, sliced
- 9 lasagna sheets
- 1 cup goat cheese
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Wash and slice the courgettes into thin, uniform rounds approximately 1/4 inch thick. If the slices are too thick, they may release excess moisture during cooking.
- In a large skillet, lightly sauté the courgette slices over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are slightly golden and softened. Remove and set aside.
- In a separate bowl, mix the goat cheese with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance its flavor. If the cheese is too firm, let it sit at room temperature for 10 minutes to soften.
- Begin layering the lasagne in the prepared baking dish. Start with a thin layer of marinara sauce covering the bottom of the dish to prevent sticking.
- Place a layer of lasagna sheets, slightly overlapping to cover the sauce. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce over the sheets.
- Add a layer of sautéed courgette slices, ensuring even coverage. Dollop small amounts of goat cheese across the courgette layer.
- Repeat the layering process: lasagna sheets, marinara sauce, courgettes, and goat cheese. Aim for 3 complete layers.
- For the final top layer, cover with lasagna sheets, remaining marinara sauce, and sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil, ensuring it doesn't touch the cheese. This helps prevent burning and allows even cooking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes covered. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to allow the cheese to become golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let the lasagne rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the layers to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of additional black pepper. Pair with a light green salad for a complete meal.
Tips
- Moisture Management: Pat your courgette slices dry after sautéing to prevent excess liquid in your lasagne.
- Cheese Temperature: Let goat cheese sit at room temperature for easier spreading and more even distribution.
- Layering is Key: Take your time creating even layers for a visually stunning and consistently delicious dish.
- Foil Coverage: Always cover with foil initially to prevent top burning and ensure even cooking.
- Resting Time Matters: Allow the lasagne to rest 10-15 minutes after baking for cleaner, more stable slices.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or thyme between layers for extra flavor complexity.
- Serving Suggestion: Pair with a crisp white wine or light green salad to balance the richness of the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 45mg
