In the world of culinary delights, there's always room for innovation and adaptation. One such exciting creation is a skillet lasagna that takes a unique turn by using labneh, a spreadable cheese crafted from strained yogurt, in place of the traditional ricotta. This vegetarian recipe not only offers a delicious alternative but also caters to those looking for a diet - friendly option.
Labneh, with its rich and creamy texture, is a staple in Middle - Eastern cuisine. It has a tangy flavor that adds a depth of taste to the lasagna. If you're unable to find labneh at your local grocery store, don't fret. Whipped cream cheese can be an excellent substitute, providing a similar creamy consistency.
Let's start by gathering the ingredients for this mouth - watering skillet lasagna. You'll need some dried lasagna noodles, which should be broken into smaller pieces to fit the skillet. These noodles will form the base of the lasagna, soaking up all the delicious flavors as they cook.
For the sauce, a classic marinara is a great choice. You can either make your own from scratch using fresh tomatoes, onions, garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs, or opt for a high - quality store - bought version. The marinara sauce adds a vibrant red color and a burst of tomatoey goodness to the dish.
When it comes to the cheese layer, as mentioned earlier, labneh or whipped cream cheese takes center stage. Along with that, you'll want to have some shredded mozzarella cheese. Mozzarella is known for its stretchy, gooey texture when melted, which is a key characteristic of a great lasagna. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top will add a nutty and savory flavor.
To add some freshness and crunch, you can include some vegetables. Sliced mushrooms are a wonderful addition, as they have an earthy flavor that pairs well with the cheese and sauce. Spinach is another great option, providing a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. You can either use fresh spinach or frozen, just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture if using frozen.
Now, let's move on to the cooking process. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, and sauté until they become translucent and fragrant. This forms the aromatic base of the dish.
Next, add the sliced mushrooms and cook them until they release their moisture and start to brown. Then, pour in the marinara sauce and bring it to a simmer. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick.
While the sauce is simmering, cook the broken lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. Drain them well and set them aside.
To assemble the skillet lasagna, start by spreading a thin layer of the marinara sauce at the bottom of the skillet. Then, add a layer of the cooked noodles, followed by a layer of labneh or whipped cream cheese. Sprinkle some shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the cheese layer. Add a layer of spinach, and then repeat the layers until all the ingredients are used up, finishing with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese on top.
Cover the skillet with foil and bake it in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes. This allows the cheese to melt and the flavors to meld together. After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 - 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Once the skillet lasagna is out of the oven, let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the lasagna to set slightly, making it easier to cut and serve. You can garnish it with some fresh basil leaves for an extra pop of color and flavor.
This skillet lasagna is not only a delicious meal but also a convenient one. The one - skillet cooking method means less cleanup, and it can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you're a vegetarian looking for a new recipe or just someone who loves a good lasagna, this labneh - based skillet lasagna is sure to become a favorite in your household.
So, the next time you're in the mood for a comforting and flavorful meal, give this skillet lasagna a try. With its unique use of labneh and a combination of fresh ingredients, it's a dish that will leave you satisfied and craving more.
