Spinach Low-Fat Lasagna
A hearty, low-fat spinach lasagna with rich tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and fresh basil, perfect for a healthy family dinner or entertaining guests. Flavors are savory and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat the spaghetti sauce and add the crushed garlic cloves.
- In a large bowl, mix the ricotta or cottage cheese with the chopped spinach, beaten egg whites, 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella, and basil.
- In a 15 x 9 x 3-inch pan, spread a layer of sauce on the bottom.
- Place 4 to 5 uncooked lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread a layer of the cheese and spinach mixture over the noodles.
- Repeat with another layer of sauce, noodles, and the mixture.
- Top with the remaining sauce generously and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the oven at 375°F for 15 minutes.
- Then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the cheese mixture. You can substitute the low-fat ricotta with nonfat cottage cheese for a lighter option. If you prefer a different flavor profile, try adding sautéed mushrooms or zucchini to the spinach mixture. This lasagna is versatile, much like Spinach Lasagna(Made With Uncooked Lasagna Noodles), allowing for various vegetables based on what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lasagna with a fresh side salad and a slice of Onion Garlic Bread for a complete meal. A light drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top enhance the dish's flavor. This recipe pairs wonderfully with Italian recipes that feature robust flavors, making it a delightful addition to any dinner table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave or cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until heated through, about 20-25 minutes. This helps maintain the lasagna's texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Spinach Low-Fat Lasagna contains roughly 643 calories, with 37g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (139% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (76% of the Daily Value), and protein (75% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1239mg per serving (54% 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 whole wheat lasagna noodles?
Absolutely! Whole wheat lasagna noodles can be used in this recipe for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. Just ensure they are fully cooked if they are not the no-boil variety, as they may require more moisture compared to regular noodles.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this lasagna gluten-free, simply use gluten-free lasagna noodles. There are many brands available that provide a great texture and flavor. Additionally, check your spaghetti sauce to ensure it is gluten-free, as some sauces may contain gluten.
Can I freeze this lasagna?
Yes, you can freeze this lasagna! Assemble it as directed, but do not bake. Instead, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake as instructed.
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).