Cranberry Herb Lasagna Recipe
Our unique cranberry herb lasagna combines layers of pasta with a rich ricotta filling, fresh herbs, and a tangy cranberry sauce. It’s a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions.
The recipe is easy to follow and allows for customization with your favorite herbs and additional ingredients like spinach or mushrooms.
Visual Appeal of Cranberry Herb Lasagna
This lasagna is a feast for the eyes, featuring vibrant layers of rich cranberry sauce and golden melted cheese. The contrast of colors creates an inviting presentation that draws guests to the table.
Garnished with fresh herbs, the dish not only looks stunning but also hints at the delightful flavors within. The rustic wooden table setting enhances the overall charm, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Flavor Profile
The combination of creamy ricotta and tangy cranberry sauce offers a unique twist on traditional lasagna. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor, with the herbs adding freshness that complements the richness of the cheese.
This dish is versatile, allowing for the addition of other ingredients like spinach or mushrooms, which can further enhance its taste and texture. The balance between savory and sweet makes it a memorable main course.
Preparation Steps
Preparing this lasagna involves several straightforward steps. Start by cooking the lasagna noodles until they are al dente, ensuring they hold up well during baking.
Next, mix the ricotta cheese with fresh herbs and spices to create a creamy filling. Layering the ingredients is where the magic happens, with alternating layers of noodles, cheese mixture, and cranberry sauce coming together to form a beautiful dish.
Serving Suggestions
Once baked to perfection, let the lasagna cool slightly before slicing. This allows the layers to set, making it easier to serve. Pairing it with a fresh side salad adds a crunchy contrast, while a glass of red wine enhances the overall dining experience.
The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish a standout choice for any meal. Guests will appreciate the effort put into creating such a unique and delicious dish.
Perfect for Special Occasions
This cranberry herb lasagna is ideal for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or any celebration. Its stunning appearance and delightful taste make it a conversation starter at the table.
Whether you’re hosting a festive dinner or simply want to impress your family, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression. The harmonious blend of flavors will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish later. Cover the lasagna tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to three days.
When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven until warmed through. This will help maintain the texture and flavor, making it almost as good as freshly baked.
Delicious Cranberry Herb Lasagna
This lasagna features layers of lasagna noodles, a creamy ricotta mixture, and a homemade cranberry sauce that adds a burst of flavor. The dish takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 cups cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Cook the Noodles: Boil the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of cranberry sauce on the bottom. Layer 3 lasagna noodles over the sauce, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, another layer of cranberry sauce, and 1/3 of the mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and remaining cranberry sauce on top.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top layer. Drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 servings
- Calories: 350kcal
- Fat: 18g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
