Ingredients:
- 8 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups of fresh basil leaves
- 1 cup of pine nuts
- 3 garlic cloves
- ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup of extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 cups of ricotta cheese
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto
To begin, let’s make the pesto sauce. In a blender or food processor, combine the fresh basil leaves, pine nuts, garlic cloves, grated Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Slowly drizzle in the extra virgin olive oil while blending until a smooth and creamy consistency is achieved. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Lasagna Noodles
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain and set aside.
Step 3: Assemble the Lasagna
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce to prevent the noodles from sticking. Place a layer of cooked lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by a layer of ricotta cheese. Spread a generous amount of pesto sauce over the ricotta layer, and then sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Repeat the process until all the ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese on top.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Allow the pesto lasagna to cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice and serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Now that you know the step-by-step process of making pesto lasagna, it’s time to gather the ingredients and give it a try! This impressive dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or any occasion where you want to serve something delicious and comforting. With the combination of homemade pesto and classic lasagna, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!