Layered Mediterranean Vegetable Lasagna with Creamy Ricotta

Layered Mediterranean Vegetable Lasagna with Creamy Ricotta is a delicious twist on classic lasagna, filled with roasted vegetables, herbs, tomato sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese. I love making this dish when I want something hearty and comforting, but still packed with nutritious, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s rich, colorful, and satisfying without being too heavy. The layers of tender roasted vegetables, herbed ricotta, and tangy tomato sauce create incredible flavor and texture in every bite. It’s a great vegetarian option that even meat-lovers enjoy, and it works beautifully for meal prep, potlucks, or Sunday family dinners.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the roasted vegetables:

• Zucchini, sliced

• Eggplant, sliced

• Red bell peppers, sliced

• Olive oil

• Salt and black pepper

• Dried oregano or Italian seasoning

For the ricotta mixture:

• Ricotta cheese

• Egg

• Grated Parmesan

• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

• Salt and pepper

For assembly:

• Lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil)

• Marinara or tomato basil sauce

• Shredded mozzarella cheese

• Optional: spinach, olives, or artichoke hearts for extra Mediterranean flavor

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), toss the sliced vegetables in olive oil, salt, pepper, and oregano, then roast them on a baking sheet for 20–25 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

2. While the vegetables roast, I mix the ricotta with the egg, Parmesan, herbs, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

3. I cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions if I’m not using no-boil.

4. I spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in a baking dish, then begin layering: noodles, roasted veggies, dollops of ricotta mixture, a sprinkle of mozzarella, and more sauce. I repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with sauce and a generous layer of mozzarella on top.

5. I cover the dish with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Then I remove the foil and bake for another 15–20 minutes until the top is golden and bubbling.

6. I let it rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 6 to 8 servings and takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, including roasting and baking time. It’s ideal for a filling dinner or to enjoy as leftovers during the week.

Variations

• I add a layer of sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.

• I include sliced black olives or artichoke hearts to boost the Mediterranean flavor.

• I use whole-wheat or gluten-free lasagna noodles depending on my dietary needs.

• I substitute cottage cheese for ricotta when I want a lighter option.

• I use a béchamel sauce in place of tomato for a white lasagna version.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. It reheats beautifully in the microwave or oven—just cover with foil and warm at 350°F until hot. I also freeze individual portions wrapped in foil and stored in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

FAQs

Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

Yes, I often assemble it a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate it until I’m ready to bake. It makes dinner so easy the next day.

Do I need to roast the vegetables first?

Roasting adds a lot of flavor and prevents the lasagna from getting watery. I highly recommend it, but I sometimes sauté the veggies if I’m short on time.

Can I use store-bought marinara?

Absolutely. I go for a high-quality marinara or tomato basil sauce—it saves time and still tastes great.

Is this lasagna freezer-friendly?

Yes. I freeze it baked or unbaked. If frozen unbaked, I thaw overnight in the fridge and then bake as directed.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

I reheat slices in the microwave for a quick meal, or in the oven at 350°F covered with foil until warmed through.

Conclusion

Layered Mediterranean Vegetable Lasagna with Creamy Ricotta is one of my favorite ways to enjoy a vegetarian meal that doesn’t feel like it’s missing anything. With its roasted veggies, luscious ricotta, and gooey mozzarella, this lasagna hits all the right notes. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and full of Mediterranean flair—perfect for any night of the week.

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