Lazy Aubergine Lasagne

Lazy Aubergine Lasagne is a lighter twist on the classic lasagna, using aubergine (eggplant) slices instead of pasta sheets. This vegetarian-friendly dish features layers of tender aubergine, savory tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s a simple yet delicious recipe that can be made quickly with minimal fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal.

Ingredients

• 2 large aubergines
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can of chopped tomatoes
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Slice the aubergines lengthwise into thin slices, about 1/4-inch thick.
3. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the canned chopped tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well and cook for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
5. In a baking dish, layer the aubergine slices, tomato sauce, and mozzarella and parmesan cheeses.
6. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used up, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
8. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
9. Let the lasagne cool slightly before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Add Meat: If you prefer a meat version, you can add ground beef or turkey to the tomato sauce mixture for extra protein.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based mozzarella and parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version of this dish.
• Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables to the layers such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: For a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or some chopped chili to the tomato sauce.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover lasagne in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or cover the entire dish with foil and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until heated through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, ricotta, or gouda to customize the flavor of your lasagne.
2. Can I prepare this ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble the lasagne ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake it the next day. It may require a few extra minutes of cooking time when reheated.
3. Can I use frozen aubergines? Fresh aubergines are recommended for this recipe, but frozen aubergines can work as well if thawed and drained properly.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free? Yes, since this lasagne doesn’t use pasta, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. How do I prevent the aubergine from becoming too soggy? To avoid soggy aubergines, make sure to slice them thinly, and consider salting them before cooking to draw out excess moisture. You can then blot them with a paper towel.
6. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Fresh tomatoes can be used in place of canned tomatoes, though you may need to adjust the cooking time to ensure the sauce thickens properly.
7. Can I freeze this lasagne? Yes, you can freeze the assembled lasagne before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time as needed.
8. Can I add a bechamel sauce to this recipe? While traditional lasagne uses bechamel sauce, this recipe keeps things simple by using tomato sauce and cheese, but you could certainly add bechamel if you like.
9. Can I use a different vegetable instead of aubergine? Zucchini is a great alternative if you’re not a fan of aubergines or want to change things up.
10. What should I serve with this lasagne? Serve this lasagne with a side salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Lazy Aubergine Lasagne is a quick and simple alternative to traditional lasagna, with a delicious and healthy twist. By using aubergines instead of pasta, it’s lighter but still packed with flavor and comfort. This dish is perfect for vegetarians and can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this easy lasagne is sure to become a favorite!

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