Name: Quinoa Lasagna Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: Fusion
Ingredients: 2 cups chicken broth; 1 cup quinoa; Cooking spray; 8 oz ricotta cheese; ½ cup parmesan cheese; 1 egg; 2 tbsp fresh basil; 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley; 1 tbsp fresh oregano; 1 pinch Salt and ground black pepper; 3 cups pasta sauce; 1½ zucchini; 2 cups baby spinach leaves; 1 fresh mozzarella ball

Quinoa lasagna is a delightful twist to the traditional Italian dish. This healthier version uses quinoa as a base layer instead of pasta, thus providing a rich source of protein and fiber. The fresh vegetables, herbs, and cheeses layered in between, contribute to a drool-worthy, flavorful dish that is sure to please everyone at your dinner table.

Photos of Quinoa Lasagna Recipe

The main ingredient you might not commonly find in your home is quinoa, a high-protein, gluten-free grain that has a nutty flavor and fluffy texture. When you go to the supermarket, look for it in the grains section. Fresh herbs like basil, parsley, and oregano will elevate the flavor of this dish, so do not skip those. You may also need to purchase fresh mozzarella and ricotta, which can be found in the dairy section.

Ingredients for the Quinoa Lasagna

Chicken broth: This will be used to cook the quinoa, imparting it with a rich flavor.

Quinoa: A nutritious grain that will serve as the base layer of the lasagna.

Ricotta cheese: A soft, creamy cheese that will be mixed with other ingredients to create a delectable filling.

Parmesan cheese: A hard, granular cheese that will add a salty, umami flavor to the dish.

Fresh herbs: Basil, parsley, and oregano are used to infuse the dish with a fresh, aromatic flavor.

Pasta sauce: This will add a tangy, savory component to the dish.

Zucchini: A light, refreshing vegetable that will be layered in the lasagna.

Baby spinach leaves: These will add a nutritious, leafy element to the dish.

Mozzarella: This will be shredded and used as the top layer of the lasagna, creating a deliciously melted cheese topping.

One reader, Bernie Scott says:

This quinoa lasagna recipe is a game-changer! The blend of quinoa, veggies, and cheese creates a delightful, guilt-free indulgence. It's a hit with the whole family and a great way to sneak in some extra nutrients. Plus, it's so easy to make! Highly recommend giving it a try.

Bernie Scott

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Quinoa Lasagna

How to cook quinoa: Quinoa should be rinsed thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural coating, which can make it taste bitter or soapy. In a saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.

How to assemble the lasagna: Layer the cooked quinoa, pasta sauce, zucchini, ricotta mixture, spinach, and mozzarella in the prepared baking dish, ensuring even distribution of ingredients for a balanced lasagna.

How to bake the lasagna: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and bake the assembled lasagna for 35-40 minutes until it is golden and bubbly on top.

How To Make Quinoa Lasagna

This quinoa lasagna is a new way to prepare this trendy superfood. It’s a gluten-free recipe loaded with low-fat cheeses and healthy vegetables.

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2cupschicken broth
1cupquinoa,uncooked
cooking spray
8ozricotta cheese,part skim
½cupparmesan cheese,grated, divided
1egg
2tbspfresh basil,chopped
2tbspfresh parsley,chopped
1tbspfresh oregano,chopped
1pinchsalt and ground black pepper,to taste
3cupspasta sauce
1½zucchini,sliced
2cupsbaby spinach leaves
1fresh mozzarella ball,shredded

Instructions

Bring the chicken broth and quinoa to a boil in a saucepan. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 20 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
Mix the ricotta cheese, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, parsley, and oregano together in a large bowl. Season with salt and black pepper.
Spread the cooked quinoa in the bottom of the baking dish. Top with ⅓ of the pasta sauce. Cover with zucchini slices and ricotta mixture.
Top with another ⅓ of the pasta sauce. Scatter all the spinach on top. Cover with remaining ⅓ of the pasta sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Sprinkle remaining ¼ cup Parmesan cheese on top.
Bake in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Serve warm, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 257.69kcal
Fat: 13.07g
Saturated Fat: 5.30g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 4.64g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.07g
Carbohydrates: 21.66g
Fiber: 3.12g
Sugar: 6.13g
Protein: 13.45g
Cholesterol: 44.49mg
Sodium: 605.27mg
Calcium: 238.29mg
Potassium: 541.50mg
Iron: 2.11mg
Vitamin A: 113.50µg
Vitamin C: 8.62mg

One Simple Technique to Elevate Your Quinoa Lasagna

When preparing the zucchini, it's best to slice them thin. This allows them to cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the pasta sauce and ricotta cheese mixture better. Additionally, when layering the lasagna, ensure each layer is evenly spread. This not only makes for a more visually appealing dish but also ensures every bite is packed with flavor. Lastly, don't rush the baking process. The lasagna needs time to bake thoroughly so that the flavors can meld together and the cheese can reach a perfect, bubbly golden brown.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Quinoa Lasagna Recipe

Prep ahead: Prepare the quinoa and ricotta mixture the day before and store them in the refrigerator. This will save you time on the day of cooking.

Use store-bought sauce: Opt for a quality pre-made pasta sauce instead of making it from scratch to cut down on prep time.

Batch cooking: Make a double batch of the quinoa lasagna and freeze one for a quick and easy meal on a busy day.

Pre-sliced veggies: Consider using pre-sliced zucchini to save time on slicing and preparation.

One-pot cooking: Cook the quinoa in the same pot as the pasta sauce to minimize clean-up and save time.

Substitute Ingredients For Quinoa Lasagna Recipe

quinoa - Substitute with brown rice: Brown rice has a similar texture and can be used as a gluten-free alternative in the lasagna recipe.
ricotta cheese - Substitute with cottage cheese: Cottage cheese can be used as a lower-fat alternative to ricotta cheese, providing a similar creamy texture.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino cheese: Pecorino cheese has a similar sharp and salty flavor to parmesan and can be used as a substitute in the recipe.
pasta sauce - Substitute with tomato puree and Italian seasoning: A combination of tomato puree and Italian seasoning can be used as a homemade alternative to pasta sauce.
zucchini - Substitute with eggplant: Eggplant can be used as a substitute for zucchini, providing a similar texture and flavor in the lasagna recipe.
baby spinach leaves - Substitute with kale leaves: Kale leaves can be used as a substitute for baby spinach, providing a hearty and nutritious addition to the lasagna.

How to Beautifully Present Quinoa Lasagna

Elevate the plating: When presenting the quinoa lasagna, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use clean lines and carefully arrange the layers to showcase the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and elegance by garnishing the quinoa lasagna with a sprinkle of fresh basil and parsley. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a burst of flavor.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by incorporating delicate and colorful edible flowers as a garnish. Choose flowers such as nasturtiums or pansies to add a whimsical and luxurious touch to the presentation.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the concept of negative space on the plate to allow the quinoa lasagna to stand out. By strategically leaving areas of the plate empty, you can draw attention to the layers and components of the dish.
Consider geometric plating: Experiment with geometric shapes and patterns when arranging the quinoa lasagna on the plate. This modern approach to plating can add a contemporary flair to the presentation.
Highlight the layers: Showcase the distinct layers of the quinoa lasagna by carefully slicing and presenting each portion to display the beautiful strata of quinoa, vegetables, and cheese.
Use elegant serving ware: Select sophisticated and refined serving ware that complements the upscale nature of the dish. Opt for minimalist yet luxurious plates and utensils to elevate the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Quinoa Lasagna

Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling, stewing, or making sauces.
Spatula: A flat, flexible utensil used for lifting, flipping, or spreading food.
Baking dish: A rectangular or square dish used for baking and cooking food in the oven.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for mixing ingredients together, often available in various sizes.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing food.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle and often a lid, used for boiling, stewing, or making sauces.
Grater: A kitchen tool with a rough surface used for shredding or grating cheese, vegetables, or other foods.
Knife: A sharp tool used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
Whisk: A utensil with a handle and wire loops, used for beating, whipping, and stirring ingredients.
Baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal sheet used for baking cookies, pastries, and other baked goods in the oven.

Mastering the Art of Storing and Freezing Quinoa Lasagna

Allow the quinoa lasagna to cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and making the lasagna soggy.
To store in the refrigerator, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The quinoa lasagna will keep well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze the lasagna. Cut the cooled lasagna into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Place the wrapped portions in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag, labeling it with the date.
Frozen quinoa lasagna can be stored for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, remove the desired number of portions from the freezer and thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
To reheat, place the thawed lasagna portions in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. If reheating from frozen, increase the baking time to 45-60 minutes, or until the lasagna is hot and bubbly.
Alternatively, individual portions can be reheated in the microwave. Place a piece of lasagna on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high power for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Cooking times may vary depending on the strength of your microwave.

The Best Methods for Reheating Quinoa Lasagna Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover quinoa lasagna in an oven-safe dish and cover it with aluminum foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to crisp up the top layer of cheese.
If you have a microwave-safe dish, you can reheat individual portions of the quinoa lasagna in the microwave. Place a single serving on a plate and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the cheese to become rubbery.
For a crispy top layer, you can also reheat the quinoa lasagna in a skillet on the stovetop. Place a slice of the lasagna in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for about 5 minutes, or until the bottom is crispy and the lasagna is heated through.
If you want to maintain the moisture of the quinoa lasagna while reheating, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to the dish before placing it in the oven or microwave. This will help prevent the quinoa and cheese from drying out.
For a quick and easy reheating method, you can use a toaster oven. Place a slice of the quinoa lasagna on a toaster oven tray and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and slightly crispy on top.

Fascinating Trivia About Quinoa Lasagna

Quinoa is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent source of plant-based protein. It is also high in fiber and various nutrients, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.

Quinoa Lasagna: A Budget-Friendly Meal for Home Cooks?

The cost-effectiveness of this quinoa lasagna recipe is quite high. Quinoa is an affordable and nutritious alternative to traditional lasagna noodles, and the addition of zucchini and spinach further enhances its value. The use of chicken broth and ricotta cheese may slightly increase the cost, but the overall expense is reasonable. This dish offers a balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it a cost-effective option for a household. On a scale of 1-10, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its nutritional value and affordability. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20-$25.

Is Quinoa Lasagna Healthy or Unhealthy?

The quinoa lasagna recipe is a healthier twist on the classic Italian dish. By using quinoa instead of traditional lasagna noodles, the recipe provides a gluten-free alternative that is also rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. The inclusion of zucchini and spinach adds a good amount of vegetables to the dish, increasing its overall nutritional value.

However, the recipe still contains a significant amount of cheese, which can be high in saturated fat and calories. The use of ricotta, parmesan, and mozzarella cheese contributes to the dish's creamy texture and flavor, but it also increases its fat content.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of cheese used in the recipe, or opt for low-fat versions of ricotta and mozzarella
Increase the amount of vegetables by adding more zucchini, spinach, or other nutrient-dense options like mushrooms, bell peppers, or eggplant
Use a low-sodium pasta sauce to reduce the overall salt content of the dish
Incorporate more herbs and spices to enhance the flavor without relying on excessive amounts of cheese or salt
Serve the lasagna with a side salad to increase the meal's overall vegetable content and provide a balance of nutrients

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious meal that still satisfies your craving for a comforting lasagna dish. The quinoa base provides a healthy foundation, while the modifications help to reduce the overall fat and calorie content, making it a more well-rounded option for health-conscious individuals.

Our Editor's Honest Opinion on Quinoa Lasagna

This quinoa lasagna recipe is a delightful twist on the classic dish, offering a healthier and gluten-free alternative. The combination of quinoa, zucchini, and spinach creates a flavorful and nutritious filling, while the blend of herbs and cheeses adds a rich and savory dimension. The layers of ingredients come together beautifully, resulting in a satisfying and comforting meal. The recipe's simplicity and versatility make it a great option for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Overall, it's a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of lasagna in a lighter and more wholesome form.

Enhance Your Quinoa Lasagna Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a crispy garlic parmesan topping.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts drizzled with a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze for the perfect balance of flavors.

Honey Sriracha Roasted Carrots: Roasted carrots coated in a sticky honey sriracha glaze for a spicy and sweet kick.

Delicious Alternatives to Traditional Lasagna Recipes

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Create a delicious and colorful dish by stuffing bell peppers with a flavorful mixture of ground meat, rice, and spices, then baking them to perfection.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dish by topping it with a refreshing and tangy mango salsa made with fresh mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.

Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a comforting bowl of butternut squash soup, made with roasted butternut squash, onions, garlic, and a hint of nutmeg for a cozy and satisfying meal.

Banana Bread Pudding: Indulge in a decadent dessert by turning ripe bananas and day-old bread into a rich and creamy bread pudding, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas to Complement Your Quinoa Lasagna

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Impress your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful and refreshing skewers are a delightful combination of fresh mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil, drizzled with balsamic glaze. A light and elegant appetizer to start off any gathering.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth and decadent texture of this dessert will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Savor the creamy and luscious strawberry cheesecake, adorned with fresh strawberry slices and a drizzle of strawberry sauce. The combination of tangy cream cheese and sweet strawberries creates a delightful harmony of flavors in every bite.

Why trust this Quinoa Lasagna Recipe:

This recipe offers a wholesome twist on traditional lasagna, incorporating nutrient-rich quinoa as a hearty alternative to pasta. The combination of zucchini and spinach adds vibrant flavors and essential vitamins, while the blend of ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, and mozzarella creates a rich and creamy texture. With a medley of fresh herbs and a homemade pasta sauce, this dish promises a burst of authentic Italian flavors. Trust in the quality and balance of ingredients to elevate your dining experience.

Share your thoughts on this delicious and healthy Quinoa Lasagna Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum section.

FAQ:

Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, you can definitely use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth in this recipe. It will give the dish a slightly different flavor, but it will still be delicious.

Can I prepare the quinoa ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can cook the quinoa ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the lasagna. This can help save time when you're ready to make the dish.

Can I add other vegetables to the lasagna?

Of course! Feel free to get creative with the vegetables. You can add mushrooms, bell peppers, or any other vegetables you enjoy to customize the lasagna to your liking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Definitely! You can experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste. For example, you can use cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses to add your own twist to the recipe.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftover lasagna. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. When you're ready to enjoy the leftovers, simply thaw and reheat in the oven.