Lasagna is a beloved Italian dish known for its delicious layers of pasta, cheese, and sauce. One of the most popular variations of this dish is Ricotta Lasagna, which replaces the traditional bechamel sauce with a rich and creamy ricotta cheese mixture. In this article, we will guide you through an easy recipe for making this classic Italian dish at home, as well as the fascinating history and some curiosities about it.
Ingredients
To make an Easy Ricotta Lasagna, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 12 lasagna noodles, cooked according to package instructions
- 2 ½ cups marinara sauce, store-bought or homemade
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Extra parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
With the ingredients ready, it’s time to create a delicious Easy Ricotta Lasagna. Follow these step-by-step instructions:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), making sure the rack is in the middle position.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 ½ cups of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, egg, fresh parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to form the cheese filling.
Step 3: Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Then add a layer of cooked lasagna noodles, overlapping them slightly.
Step 4: Spread about one-third of the ricotta mixture evenly over the noodles. Top the ricotta layer with another ½ cup of marinara sauce.
Step 5: Repeat the layering process two more times, starting with the noodles and finishing with the sauce. Finally, place the last layer of noodles and cover with the remaining marinara sauce. Sprinkle the leftover ½ cup of shredded mozzarella on top.
Step 6: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is bubbly and golden.
Step 7: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with extra parsley or basil if desired.
History and Curiosities
Lasagna, from the Greek term “lasanon” meaning “chamber pot”, has evolved significantly over centuries. Its humble beginnings date back to ancient Greece, where they used a dish named “Laganon” – layers of pasta and sauce, but without cheese. Throughout history, as the recipe traveled from region to region, various cultures integrated their local tastes and ingredients into the dish.
It wasn’t until the Middle Ages that lasagna acquired its classic Italian identity. As tomatoes were introduced to Europe and incorporated into Italian cuisine, they became an essential ingredient in what would become today’s beloved lasagna.
Ricotta lasagna specifically has its roots in southern Italy, where ricotta cheese is abundant and widely used in many dishes. Ricotta lasagna became popular for its rich, creamy taste and slightly lighter texture compared to its bechamel counterpart.
Today, lasagna is enjoyed all around the world, with countless variations and adaptations to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. From seafood and vegetarian versions to gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives, lasagna has come a long way from its ancient origins. But one thing remains true: no matter which version you prefer, a delicious lasagna is always worth savoring.
