A new take on the classic dish, a light and deconstructed Mediterranean lasagne is set to impress guests at summer gatherings. This recipe, which emphasizes vibrant flavors and simplicity, transforms traditional lasagne into a delightful open dish featuring roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and a fresh herb dressing.
This open lasagne is a culinary delight that combines the freshness of summer produce with the comforting elements of a classic pasta dish. With just five easy steps, it is designed for those looking to host effortlessly this season.
Ingredients to Serve Four
To prepare this dish, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 red peppers, sliced into thick strips
– 4 small eggplants, halved or 1 standard aubergine, thickly sliced
– 21 oz butternut squash or firm pumpkin, peeled, deseeded, and cut into wedges
– 6 fresh bay leaves
– 7 oz baby plum tomatoes (red and yellow)
– Approximately 3.4 fl oz extra virgin olive oil
– 1.5 tsp coriander seeds, toasted and crushed
– 1 garlic clove, crushed
– A pinch of dried chilli flakes
– A small handful of fresh oregano, roughly chopped
– 2 tbsp high-quality sherry vinegar
– A large handful of Kalamata olives, stoned
– 12 fresh lasagne sheets (approximately 11.3 oz)
– 7 oz feta cheese, drained and sliced
Steps to Prepare the Dish
Begin by preheating the oven to 390°F (gas mark 6). Spread the sliced peppers, eggplants, butternut squash, tomatoes, and bay leaves across two large oven trays. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, ensuring the vegetables are lightly coated. Season generously with salt and pepper before roasting them in the centre of the oven for about 35 minutes, or until they are tender. Once cooked, remove them from the oven, cover loosely with foil, and set aside.
In a separate bowl, mix the remaining olive oil with the crushed coriander seeds, garlic, chilli flakes, chopped oregano, olives, and vinegar to create a flavorful dressing. Season this mixture to taste.
While preparing the dressing, cook the lasagne sheets in a pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the sheets thoroughly and toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
To serve, artfully layer the lasagne sheets with the roasted vegetables and slices of feta cheese on each plate. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the top to create an inviting presentation.
For an added touch, consider roasting the vegetables in a beautiful ceramic baking dish, such as the NutriChef 3-Piece Ceramic Casserole Set, which not only enhances the dish’s aesthetic but also provides effective cooking. Pair this open lasagne with a vibrant summer salad on the side for additional color and freshness.
This innovative recipe offers a sophisticated yet easy approach to summer entertaining, making it a perfect addition to any gathering. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and the ease of preparation that this deconstructed lasagne provides.
