A new culinary trend is emerging for summer gatherings: the deconstructed lasagne. This innovative dish combines the classic elements of lasagne with a fresh Mediterranean twist, offering a vibrant and flavorful option for entertaining guests. The recipe is not only simple but also impressive, allowing home cooks to create restaurant-quality meals with ease.
Light and Flavorful Ingredients
This open lasagne features a delightful mix of sweet roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and a zesty oregano dressing. The combination of these ingredients transforms a traditional pasta dish into a modern masterpiece. The key components include:
– 2 red peppers, sliced into thick strips
– 4 small eggplants, halved or 1 standard aubergine, thickly sliced
– 21 oz of butternut squash or firm pumpkin, peeled and cut into wedges
– 7 oz of baby plum tomatoes, both red and yellow
– A large handful of Kalamata olives, stoned
– 12 fresh lasagne sheets (about 11.3 oz)
– 7 oz of feta cheese, drained and sliced
These ingredients serve four and can be prepared in five straightforward steps, making it ideal for summer entertaining.
Step-by-Step Preparation
To begin, preheat the oven to 390°F (gas mark 6). Arrange the sliced peppers, eggplants, squash, tomatoes, and fresh bay leaves on two large oven trays, ensuring they are well spread out. Drizzle with 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the centre of the oven for about 35 minutes until cooked through. Once done, cover the vegetables loosely with foil and set aside.
Meanwhile, prepare a dressing by mixing the remaining olive oil with toasted and crushed coriander seeds, crushed garlic, dried chilli flakes, fresh oregano, olives, and sherry vinegar. Season this mixture to taste.
Next, cook the lasagne sheets in salted, boiling water according to package instructions. Drain the sheets well and toss with a little oil to prevent sticking.
To serve, artfully layer the roasted vegetables and feta cheese on each plate, draping the lasagne sheets over the top. Drizzle the prepared dressing over the dish to complete the open lasagne presentation.
For an ideal cooking experience, consider using a ceramic baking dish, such as the NutriChef 3-Piece Ceramic Casserole Set, which is perfect for roasting vegetables. Pair this dish with a refreshing summer salad to enhance color and freshness on your dining table.
This deconstructed lasagne not only brings sophistication to summer meals but also simplifies the cooking process, making it accessible for everyone looking to impress their guests.
