Fried Green Tomato Lasagne
Fried green tomato lasagne layers crispy fried green tomatoes with rich tomato sauce and melted cheeses, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors perfect for comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
- 4 large ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped ⓘ
- 1 can (6 oz.) tomato paste ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. sugar ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. Italian seasoning
- 1 garlic clove, minced ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. garlic salt
- 1/2 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 5 Tbsp. margarine ⓘ
- 4 large green tomatoes, cut into 1/4 inch slices ⓘ
- 1/2 c. all purpose flour ⓘ
- 6 Tbsp. grated parmesan cheese ⓘ
- 2 c. shredded mozzarella cheese ⓘ
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine the peeled and chopped ripe tomatoes, tomato paste, sugar, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, garlic salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the margarine.
- Dip green tomato slices into flour, then brown in the skillet on both sides. Remove to paper towels to drain.
- Spoon 3/4 cup of the tomato mixture into a greased 13 x 9 x 2 inch baking dish.
- Layer with one-third of the green tomato slices, then sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese.
- Repeat the layering process two more times, ending with a layer of tomato mixture on top.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the final layer.
- Bake uncovered at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and sauce is bubbly.
- Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding fresh basil or oregano to the tomato mixture. If you prefer a crunchier texture, try using cornmeal instead of flour for the green tomatoes. You can also substitute the margarine with olive oil for a healthier option. To save time, use store-bought marinara sauce instead of making the tomato mixture from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
This Fried Green Tomato Lasagne pairs beautifully with Mount Vernon'S Glazed Carrots for a delightful side dish. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagne, making for a well-rounded meal. For a heartier option, serve with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake covered with foil for about 15 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Fried Green Tomato Lasagne contains roughly 585 calories, with 23g protein, 58g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (48% of the Daily Value), protein (46% of the Daily Value), and calcium (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 857mg per serving (37% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ripe tomatoes instead of green tomatoes?
While ripe tomatoes can be used, the unique texture and tartness of green tomatoes are what make this dish special. If you prefer a sweeter flavor, you can mix half ripe and half green tomatoes, but keep in mind the lasagne might be less crispy.
Can this dish be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the lasagne a day in advance. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to bake. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Absolutely! This Fried Green Tomato Lasagne is a vegetarian dish, making it perfect for those following a meat-free diet. You can further enhance its nutritional value by adding layers of sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).