Day 1-2: Harvesting Fresh Vegetables
Squash (Zucchini/Summer Squash)
Squash is typically ready for harvest 50-60 days after planting. Look for tender squash that is 6-8 inches long. Harvest them in the cool morning to preserve their flavor. Inspect for any pests or imperfections. Fresh squash will bring a delicate, slightly sweet flavor to your lasagna.
Carrots
Carrots take 60-80 days to mature, depending on the variety. Harvest them after the first light frost for the sweetest flavor. Morning is the best time to pull them from the ground. Gently loosen the soil around them and pull them out. Fresh carrots will provide a pleasant sweetness and crunch to the dish.
Celery
Celery usually takes 85-120 days from seed to harvest. Wait until the stalks are firm, crisp, and 8-10 inches tall. Harvest in the early morning to preserve its freshness. Fresh celery will lend a slightly savory depth to the lasagna and complement the other vegetables.
Spinach
Spinach is typically ready for harvest in 35-45 days after planting, depending on the variety. You can start harvesting once the leaves reach a good size, usually 4-6 inches long. For the best flavor, harvest in the morning. Simply cut the outer leaves, leaving the inner ones to continue growing for future harvests. Fresh spinach will add a bright, leafy texture and vibrant color to the lasagna, balancing out the richness of the cream sauce.
Day 2: Harvesting Fresh Herbs
Basil
Basil is ready to harvest when it reaches 6-8 inches tall. Pinch off the tops to encourage more growth, and try to do this early in the morning to avoid the heat. Fresh basil will add a fragrant, peppery kick to your ricotta mixture and the sauce.
Parsley
Parsley can be harvested when it reaches about 6-8 inches. Pick the outer leaves and stems to allow the plant to continue growing. It’s a hardy herb, so feel free to harvest it anytime during the day, avoiding midday heat. Parsley will provide a mild, fresh flavor to the ricotta mixture and the overall lasagna.
Thyme
Once thyme is well-established, you can start harvesting it. Cut sprigs off the plant, leaving some behind for regrowth. Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to gather thyme. Its savory, earthy flavor will infuse the white cream sauce and enhance the overall flavor profile of the lasagna.
Day 3: Preparing and Cooking
Once all your vegetables and herbs are harvested, it’s time to prep and cook them.
Vegetable Prep
- Squash: Slice the squash into thin rounds or half-moons for easy layering in the lasagna.
- Carrots: Peel the carrots and cut them into thin rounds or matchsticks for even cooking.
- Celery: Dice the celery into small pieces, which will add texture to the white cream sauce.
- Spinach: Sauté the spinach last, along with the other vegetables. Just a few minutes in the pan will wilt it down, releasing moisture. Then, set it aside to cool before adding it to the ricotta mixture.
Sautéing the Vegetables
In a skillet, heat a little olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the squash, carrots, and celery, and sauté until they are tender and slightly caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Afterward, add the spinach and sauté for just 1-2 minutes, until it wilts down. Let the vegetables cool slightly before adding them to the ricotta.
Ricotta Cheese Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine your sautéed vegetables with ricotta cheese. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that the vegetables are evenly distributed through the ricotta. Add a pinch of salt, pepper, and freshly chopped basil and parsley to taste. For added creaminess, mix in some mozzarella cheese, which will melt beautifully during baking.
Making the White Cream Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp flour
- 2 cups milk (whole or half-and-half for a richer sauce)
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- Salt, pepper, and fresh thyme to taste
Instructions
- In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the flour to create a roux, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown.
- Gradually whisk in the milk and vegetable broth until smooth.
- Simmer the mixture, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season with salt, pepper, and fresh thyme, then remove from heat.
Assembling the Lasagna
Layering
- Spread a thin layer of white sauce on the bottom of your baking dish to prevent the noodles from sticking.
- Layer the lasagna noodles on top of the sauce, followed by a generous layer of the ricotta-vegetable mixture.
- Add another layer of white cream sauce over the ricotta mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated.
- Repeat the layering process with noodles, ricotta-vegetable mix, and white sauce until your dish is full. Finish with a final layer of white sauce and a sprinkle of grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese on top.
Healthy Alternative: Whole Grain Lasagna Noodles
For a healthier twist on this classic dish, consider using whole grain lasagna noodles instead of traditional white pasta. Whole grain noodles are a fantastic source of fiber and essential nutrients, and they add a subtle nutty flavor that complements the creamy vegetables and white sauce perfectly. You can easily find these hearty noodles online. Here's a brand we love.
DeLallo Whole Wheat Lasagna Noodles
As seen on >>> Amazon. It's a nutritious and satisfying alternative that’s both delicious and better for you. Make this simple swap to elevate your meal and feel good about the ingredients you’re putting on your plate.
Baking the Lasagna
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the lasagna with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. Allow the lasagna to rest for about 10 minutes before serving to ensure the layers set properly.
By adding freshly harvested spinach along with your other garden vegetables, you’ll give this vegetable lasagna a vibrant, flavorful, and nutrient-packed twist. Plus, using whole grain noodles makes this dish even healthier, providing more fiber and a wholesome touch. The sautéed vegetables, creamy ricotta mixture, and rich white sauce come together to create a delicious, satisfying dish that highlights the best of your garden harvest.
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