Lasagna is a timeless classic that brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. Our Golden Grain Lasagna Recipe takes this beloved dish to the next level by incorporating wholesome grains that add a delightful texture and boost nutrition. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a hearty meal without sacrificing flavor or health.
This recipe blends layers of tender pasta, rich sauce, and a golden grain mix that creates a unique twist on traditional lasagna. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests we’ll guide you through every step to make this dish a standout favorite. Get ready to savor a deliciously satisfying meal that’s both nourishing and irresistible.
Ingredients
To craft our Golden Grain Lasagna, we gather fresh wholesome ingredients focusing on texture and balanced flavors. Below are the carefully selected components categorized for streamlined preparation.
For the Golden Grain Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup golden quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
- 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Lasagna Layers
- 9 whole wheat lasagna noodles, cooked al dente
- 1 cup cooked farro (can substitute with barley or brown rice)
- 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise
- 1 large carrot, shredded
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
For the Cheese Mixture
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 1 cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Additional Ingredients
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese for topping
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild heat boost)
| Ingredient Category | Key Components |
|---|---|
| Golden Grain Sauce | Olive oil, onion, garlic, quinoa, broth, tomatoes, herbs, spices |
| Lasagna Layers | Whole wheat noodles, farro, zucchini, carrot, spinach |
| Cheese Mixture | Ricotta, mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, parsley, garlic powder |
| Additional Ingredients | Mozzarella topping, basil garnish, red pepper flakes |
Together these ingredients build the foundation for our hearty yet healthy Golden Grain Lasagna creating layers of nutrition and distinct flavors.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our Golden Grain Lasagna perfectly, having the right equipment at hand ensures smooth and efficient cooking. Below is a comprehensive list of essential tools that help us achieve the ideal texture, layering, and flavor.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Skillet | Sautéing vegetables and cooking the quinoa |
| Medium Saucepan | Simmering the Golden Grain Sauce |
| Large Pot | Boiling whole wheat lasagna noodles |
| 9×13 Inch Baking Dish | Layering and baking the lasagna |
| Mixing Bowl | Combining the cheese mixture |
| Wooden Spoon | Stirring sauces and grains |
| Colander | Draining noodles and cooked grains |
| Measuring Cups & Spoons | Accurately measuring ingredients |
| Cheese Grater | Grating Parmesan and shredding mozzarella |
| Aluminum Foil | Covering the lasagna during baking |
| Oven Mitts | Safely handling hot bakeware |
We emphasize the importance of a 9×13 inch baking dish for even layering and baking. A large pot and colander play critical roles in preparing whole wheat noodles and draining cooked grains like farro and quinoa. The wooden spoon is our tool of choice for gentle stirring that protects the dish’s delicate texture.
Equipping our kitchen with these tools sets the stage for a seamless cooking experience as we bring together nutrient-rich grains and fresh ingredients in the Golden Grain Lasagna Recipe.
Preparation
To achieve the perfect Golden Grain Lasagna texture and flavor, we must carefully prepare each element. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure each component is ready for assembly.
Prepping the Golden Grain Sauce
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté 1 finely chopped onion and 3 minced garlic cloves until translucent and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of rinsed quinoa and toast for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Pour in 2 ½ cups vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
- Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the sauce slightly thickens.
- Adjust seasoning as needed for a balanced rich tomato-herb flavor.
Preparing the Lasagna Sheets
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add 9-12 whole wheat lasagna noodles, cooking according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes).
- Drain and immediately transfer noodles to a large tray or baking sheet. Drizzle lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Allow noodles to cool and set aside for layering.
Preparing the Cheese Mixture
- In a medium bowl combine:
| Ingredient | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Ricotta cheese | 2 cups |
| Shredded mozzarella | 1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan | ½ cup |
| Large egg | 1 |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic powder | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt | ¼ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ¼ teaspoon |
- Mix ingredients thoroughly until smooth and well incorporated.
- Taste and adjust seasoning to bring out the creamy, slightly tangy profile perfect for layering.
This careful Preparation primes all components of our Golden Grain Lasagna to meld beautifully in the final bake, ensuring every bite delivers rich flavor and delightful texture.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these precise steps to assemble and bake our Golden Grain Lasagna to perfection. Each phase builds layers of rich flavor and wholesome texture that make this dish truly exceptional.
Assembling the Golden Grain Lasagna
- Prepare the baking dish by lightly greasing a 9×13 inch pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Layer the base by spreading 1 cup of the Golden Grain Sauce evenly on the bottom.
- Place the first layer of noodles over the sauce, ensuring they lie flat without overlapping densely.
- Add a third of the cooked farro evenly over the noodles.
- Top the farro with a third of the sautéed vegetables (zucchini, carrot, spinach).
- Spoon dollops of the cheese mixture evenly over the vegetables—about one-third of the total.
- Repeat the sequence: sauce, noodles, farro, veggies, and cheese mixture twice more, creating three full layers.
- Finish the final layer with noodles topped with the remaining Golden Grain Sauce and a generous sprinkle of shredded mozzarella.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and optional red pepper flakes for added color and zing.
Baking the Lasagna
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cover the assembled lasagna tightly with aluminum foil to lock in moisture.
- Bake for 40 minutes covered to allow the ingredients to meld and cook thoroughly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese topping turns golden and bubbly.
- Use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F (74°C) for safe and perfect doneness.
| Baking Temperature | Time Covered | Time Uncovered | Internal Temp Target |
|---|---|---|---|
| 375°F (190°C) | 40 minutes | 10-15 minutes | 165°F (74°C) |
Resting Time
- Remove the lasagna from the oven and let it rest uncovered for 15 minutes.
- This crucial step allows the layers to set, making slicing cleaner and the flavors more concentrated.
- Serve warm garnished with additional fresh basil or a light drizzle of olive oil for an elevated presentation.
Serving Suggestions
To complement our Golden Grain Lasagna, consider pairing it with fresh, vibrant sides that enhance the wholesome flavors and textures. Here are our top serving ideas to elevate the entire meal experience:
Fresh Salad Pairings
A crisp salad adds brightness and contrast to the rich layers of the lasagna. We recommend:
- Arugula and Cherry Tomato Salad: Toss arugula with halved cherry tomatoes, shaved Parmesan, a splash of lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Mixed Greens with Balsamic Vinaigrette: Combine baby spinach, kale, and romaine with walnuts and dried cranberries, all dressed in a light balsamic vinaigrette.
Bread Options
A warm, textured bread rounds out this hearty meal perfectly:
- Garlic Herb Focaccia: The aromatic herbs and crispy crust pair beautifully with the golden grains in the lasagna.
- Whole Wheat Bread: For a wholesome, fiber-rich option, rich in nutty notes.
Beverage Pairings
Selecting wines or beverages that harmonize with the flavors is essential:
| Beverage Type | Recommended Options | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Red Wine | Chianti, Sangiovese, Merlot | Medium-bodied, fruity, balanced |
| White Wine | Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc | Crisp, refreshing, light |
| Non-Alcoholic | Sparkling Water with Lemon | Clean, palate-cleansing |
Garnish & Final Touches
To intensify aroma and presentation, consider:
- Freshly chopped basil leaves sprinkled on top
- A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil post-baking
- A pinch of red pepper flakes to add subtle heat for spice lovers
By thoughtfully serving our Golden Grain Lasagna with these accompaniments, we create a balanced plate that highlights both hearty grains and fresh flavors, making every meal memorable.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To preserve the flavor and texture of our Golden Grain Lasagna, proper storage and thoughtful make-ahead planning are essential. Follow these guidelines to enjoy this wholesome dish at its best, even days after baking.
Cooling and Refrigerating
- Allow the lasagna to cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes after baking. This helps it set properly and prevents sogginess.
- Cover the lasagna tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil or transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Recommendations
Freezing is ideal for preserving lasagna for longer periods without sacrificing quality:
- Cool the lasagna completely.
- Wrap portions individually in plastic wrap then in aluminum foil or use vacuum-sealed freezer bags.
- Label with the date before freezing.
- Freeze for up to 3 months without loss of flavor or texture.
Reheating Instructions
Proper reheating revives the dish’s rich flavors and creamy texture.
| Method | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven (Recommended) | 350°F (175°C) | 20-25 minutes (covered), | Reheat covered to prevent drying; uncover for last 5 mins to crisp cheese topping |
| 5-10 minutes (uncovered) | |||
| Microwave | High | 3-5 minutes per serving | Use microwave-safe cover to retain moisture |
Pro Tip: Let the reheated lasagna rest for 5 minutes before serving for optimal texture.
Make-Ahead Preparation Tips
- Assemble the lasagna a day ahead and refrigerate unbaked. Cover tightly and bake fresh to enjoy a vibrant, freshly cooked taste.
- If freezing before baking, partially bake for 20 minutes, cool, then freeze. When ready to serve, bake directly from frozen, adding 15-20 minutes to the baking time at 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare components like the Golden Grain Sauce, cooked farro, and cheese mixture in advance to speed up assembly on the day of cooking.
By following these storage and make-ahead tips, we ensure our Golden Grain Lasagna stays delicious, convenient, and ready to impress anytime.
Conclusion
Golden Grain Lasagna offers a wonderful way to enjoy a classic comfort food with added nutrition and texture. Its blend of wholesome grains, fresh vegetables, and rich cheeses creates a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
With the right preparation and layering, this dish delivers both flavor and heartiness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and nourishment to the table.
We’re confident that once you try this lasagna, it’ll become a favorite go-to in your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the Golden Grain Lasagna different from traditional lasagna?
The Golden Grain Lasagna incorporates wholesome grains like quinoa and farro, adding texture and extra nutrition compared to traditional recipes that use only pasta and cheese.
What are the main grains used in this lasagna recipe?
Quinoa and farro are the two key grains, providing a hearty texture and enhancing the nutritional value of the dish.
Can I prepare the Golden Grain Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator to save time on the day of assembly.
What type of noodles should I use for this lasagna?
Whole wheat lasagna noodles are recommended for added fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the grains and vegetables.
How long do I need to bake the lasagna?
Bake covered at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes, then uncovered for 10-15 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
How do I store leftover Golden Grain Lasagna?
Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Can this lasagna be made vegetarian?
Yes, the recipe is naturally vegetarian, using vegetable broth and no meat ingredients.
What side dishes pair well with Golden Grain Lasagna?
Fresh salads like arugula with cherry tomatoes and warm bread such as garlic herb focaccia complement the dish perfectly.
How do I reheat leftover lasagna?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm or microwave in short intervals, stirring if needed, to maintain texture and flavor.
Is the lasagna suitable for entertaining guests?
Absolutely, its hearty yet healthy ingredients make it a satisfying and impressive meal for family or guests.