Salmon Spinach Lasagna

Introduction

There’s something wonderfully comforting about lasagna, and this Salmon Spinach Lasagna takes that beloved dish to a new level. I was pleasantly surprised by how the combination of flaky salmon and fresh spinach worked beautifully with the creamy white sauce, creating a dish that was not only rich and satisfying but also healthy. My family devoured it, with my kids asking for seconds. It’s perfect for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, proving that lasagna can be versatile beyond the traditional meat sauce.

Ingredients

For the Lasagna:

• 9 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups cooked salmon, flaked (fresh, canned, or smoked)
• 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed, and drained)
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the White Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (or half and half)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)

Instructions

Cook the Lasagna Noodles:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the lasagna noodles and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the White Sauce:

2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (a roux).
3. Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Filling:

5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked salmon, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.

Assemble the Lasagna:

6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
7. Spread a small amount of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
8. Place 3 lasagna noodles in the bottom of the dish. Spread 1/3 of the salmon-spinach mixture over the noodles, followed by a thin layer of white sauce.
9. Repeat the layering process twice more: noodles, salmon-spinach mixture, and white sauce.
10. Finish the top layer with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Bake the Lasagna:

11. Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.

Serve:

12. Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

Enjoy this Salmon Spinach Lasagna – it’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 24g
• Cholesterol: 90mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• With Garlic Bread: Serve warm with a side of garlic bread for an added layer of flavor.
• Accompanied by Salad: A fresh green salad pairs beautifully with the richness of the lasagna.
• Garnished with Herbs: Top with fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salmon and spinach provide the best flavor and texture.
2. Let it Rest: Allow the lasagna to rest after baking; this helps the layers set and makes for easier slicing.
3. Customize the Cheese: Feel free to mix different cheeses, like feta or goat cheese, for added flavor.
4. Experiment with Herbs: Try adding dill or thyme for an additional flavor twist.
5. Use Store-Bought Sauce: For a quicker meal, consider using a store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making your own.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Omit the salmon and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or zucchini, for a delicious vegetarian lasagna.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free lasagna noodles to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Seafood Mix: Combine salmon with other seafood like shrimp or crab for a seafood medley lasagna.

Serving Suggestions

• With White Wine: Pair with a chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors.
• Side of Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus or Brussels sprouts make a perfect side dish.
• Add a Slice of Lemon: A wedge of lemon adds brightness when served alongside the lasagna.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This lasagna can be assembled ahead of time and frozen before baking. Just cover tightly with foil and store for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use canned salmon?

• Yes, canned salmon works great for this recipe!

1. How do I prevent my lasagna from being watery?

• Make sure to drain any excess moisture from cooked spinach if using frozen, and avoid overcooking the noodles.

1. Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?

• Yes, you can prepare the lasagna a day in advance and store it in the fridge before baking.

1. What type of salmon should I use?

• Any cooked salmon works, including fresh, canned, or smoked.

1. Can I use non-dairy milk for the sauce?

• Yes, you can use almond milk or soy milk, but it may alter the creaminess.

1. Is it possible to add more vegetables?

• Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for more flavor and nutrition.

1. What should I do if I don’t have ricotta cheese?

• Cottage cheese can be used as a substitute for ricotta.

1. How do I reheat leftovers?

• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave.

1. Can I use no-boil lasagna noodles?

• Yes, just follow the package instructions for using them in a baked dish.

1. What can I serve with this lasagna?
   • It pairs well with a simple salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.

Conclusion

Salmon Spinach Lasagna is a delightful twist on traditional lasagna, offering a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy the health benefits of salmon and spinach, all while indulging in creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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