Here’s a fun autumnal twist to your regular lasagna recipe. This plant-based lasagna combines the velvety goodness of Kabocha squash, caramelized onions, mushrooms, and your favorite greens, with a “cheesy” Bechamel sauce, all crowned with a crunchy layer of buttery panko breadcrumbs.

the squash

Kabocha squash, also known as Japanese pumpkin, has very creamy flesh and a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. (Any type of squash or pumpkin you like will work well for the lasagna, however.) The squash is layered with fragrant sage, mushrooms which add a rich and earthy taste, and caramelized onions to bring a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the squash. Adding a few handfuls of any greens you enjoy, add extra nutrients and a pop of vibrant color. 

The noodles

One of the advantages of not pre-cooking the lasagna noodles is that it saves time and effort in the kitchen. When the lasagna is baking, the noodles will absorb the moisture from the sauce and the other ingredients, becoming tender and flavorful. This means you can skip the extra step of boiling the noodles, which can sometimes be a tedious process.

Not pre-cooking the lasagna noodles also helps to prevent them from becoming overly soft or mushy. By allowing them to cook in the oven, the noodles retain a slightly al dente texture, adding a pleasant bite to your lasagna.

The sauce

Instead of using cheese, a smooth and “cheesy” Bechamel sauce brings the whole dish together. Made with nutritional yeast, this plant-based alternative provides a pleasingly creamy texture, reminiscent of the classic cheese sauce, but without any dairy.

The topping

To add an irresistible finishing touch, we crown this flavorful creation with a generous layer of buttery panko breadcrumbs. These crispy crumbs not only provide a delightful contrast to the creamy layers underneath but also add an excellent textural element to the overall dish. The golden-brown crust that forms as it bakes in the oven is the cherry on top.

Enjoy!

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Nutritional Info: Calories: 442kcalCarbohydrates: 59gProtein: 14gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.1gSodium: 249mgPotassium: 1033mgFiber: 7gSugar: 8gVitamin A: 4680IUVitamin C: 31mgCalcium: 278mgIron: 9mg