Nigella Mushroom Lasagna

Name: Nigella's Mushroom Lasagna
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Lasagna sheets; Olive oil; Onions, finely sliced; Garlic, crushed; Mixed mushrooms, sliced; Fresh spinach leaves; Butter, flour, milk for béchamel sauce; Nutmeg (optional for béchamel); Parmesan cheese; Melty cheese of choice; Seasonings: ground coriander, chili powder, salt, pepper

Nigella Lawson's Mushroom Lasagna is a delightful twist on the traditional lasagna, featuring the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the creamy richness of béchamel sauce. This dish is perfect for those who love the comforting layers of lasagna but are looking for a vegetarian option that doesn't compromise on taste or texture.

Brief Description of the Recipe

This Mushroom Lasagna, while not directly attributed to Nigella Lawson, draws inspiration from her culinary style, emphasizing comfort food with a gourmet touch. The recipe involves layers of lasagna sheets, a savory mushroom and onion mixture, and a smooth béchamel sauce, all topped with golden, bubbling cheese.

Cultural or Historical Context

Lasagna is a classic Italian dish with variations across different regions. The addition of mushrooms gives this version a contemporary twist, aligning with modern preferences for vegetarian dishes. Nigella Lawson is known for her approachable yet sophisticated recipes, making this dish a perfect addition to her repertoire of comfort food classics.

Ingredients List

Lasagna sheets (preferably fresh for better texture)
Olive oil for sautéing
Onions and garlic, finely sliced and crushed, respectively, for the base
A mix of mushrooms, sliced, for the filling
Fresh spinach leaves, adding a touch of green and a slight bitterness to balance the flavors
Basic ingredients for béchamel sauce: butter, flour, and milk, seasoned with nutmeg (optional)
A variety of cheeses including Parmesan and your choice of melty cheese for topping
Seasonings like ground coriander, chili powder, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavors

Preparation Instructions

Begin by sautéing onions and garlic in olive oil until golden, then add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture.
Layer the sautéed mushrooms and onions with lasagna sheets in a baking dish, interspersing layers with béchamel sauce and spinach leaves.
Season each layer with coriander, chili, salt, and pepper to taste.
Finish with a layer of lasagna sheets topped with béchamel sauce and a generous sprinkle of cheese.
Bake in a preheated oven until the cheese is golden and bubbly, and the lasagna sheets are tender.

Storage and Reheating

This lasagna can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven covered with foil to prevent drying out, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

Nutritional Information

Mushroom Lasagna is relatively rich due to the béchamel sauce and cheese but offers good nutritional value from the mushrooms and spinach, including vitamins and minerals. For a lighter version, skimmed milk and low-fat cheese options can be used in the béchamel sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use different types of mushrooms? Yes, feel free to experiment with various mushrooms like portobello, shiitake, or chanterelles for different flavors and textures.
Is it possible to make this lasagna vegan? Absolutely. Substitute the dairy with plant-based alternatives and use vegan cheese for the topping.
How can I prevent the lasagna from becoming too dry? Ensure your béchamel sauce is of a pourable consistency and don't skimp on the sauce layers. Covering the lasagna with foil during the initial baking phase also helps retain moisture.

This Mushroom Lasagna is a testament to the versatility of vegetarian cuisine, offering a comforting and satisfying dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the layers of flavor and the delightful combination of textures in this exquisite take on a classic lasagna.