The summer season invites opportunities for entertaining, and a new recipe for an open lasagne offers a refreshing twist on a classic dish. This version features a vibrant Mediterranean flair, combining sweet roasted vegetables, salty feta cheese, and a delicate oregano dressing. Easily prepared in just five steps, this dish is designed to impress guests while keeping the cooking process straightforward.
Ingredients for a Flavorful Dish
This open lasagne serves four and includes the following ingredients:
– 2 red peppers, sliced into thick strips
– 4 small eggplants, halved or 1 standard aubergine, thickly sliced
– 600 grams (21 oz) butternut squash or firm pumpkin, peeled, deseeded, and cut into wedges
– 6 fresh bay leaves
– 200 grams (7 oz) baby plum tomatoes (both red and yellow)
– Approximately 100 milliliters (3.4 fl oz) extra virgin olive oil
– 1.5 teaspoons coriander seeds, toasted and crushed
– 1 garlic clove, crushed
– A pinch of dried chilli flakes
– A small handful of fresh oregano, roughly chopped
– 2 tablespoons of best-quality sherry vinegar
– A large handful of Kalamata olives, stoned
– 12 fresh lasagne sheets (approximately 320 grams or 11.3 oz)
– 200 grams (7 oz) feta cheese, drained and sliced
Step-by-Step Preparation
Begin by preheating the oven to 200°C (390°F) or gas mark 6. Prepare two large oven trays by evenly distributing the sliced peppers, eggplants, squash, tomatoes, and bay leaves across them. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring all vegetables are lightly coated. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Roast the vegetables in the oven for about 35 minutes, or until tender. Once cooked, remove them from the oven, cover loosely with foil, and set aside.
For the dressing, combine the remaining olive oil with the crushed coriander seeds, garlic, chilli flakes, oregano, olives, and sherry vinegar. Season this mixture to taste.
Next, cook the lasagne sheets in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. After draining, toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
To serve, artfully layer the lasagne sheets on each plate with the roasted vegetables and slices of feta cheese. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top to complete the open lasagne presentation.
For added elegance, consider using a beautiful ceramic baking dish, such as the NutriChef 3-Piece Ceramic Casserole Set, which is perfect for roasting vegetables. Pair this dish with a refreshing summer salad to enhance the meal’s presentation and flavor.
This open lasagne not only captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine but also showcases a modern approach to a beloved classic. It is an excellent choice for summer gatherings, promising both sophistication and ease in preparation.
