Vegan Zucchini Lasagna

A delicious, wholesome lasagna packed with plant-based protein and rich, savory flavors.

Ingredients:

For the “Meat” Layer:

• 1 ½ cups cooked red quinoa

• 1 ½ cups cooked red lentils (cooked with 1 tsp Italian seasoning + ½ tsp onion powder)

• 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped

• 2 sweet peppers (red, yellow, or orange), finely chopped

• 2 green onions, chopped

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 clove fresh garlic, minced

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp sea salt (or to taste)

For the Noodles:

• 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced lengthwise

For the “Cheese” Layer:

• 1 cup Brazil nuts, soaked for at least 8 hours (or 2 hours in hot water)

• ½ cup water

• ¼ cup unsweetened nut milk (almond, hemp, or preferred choice)

• 1 tsp dried basil

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• 1 shallot, finely chopped (or 1 tsp onion powder)

• ½ tsp sea salt

Additional Layers:

• 5 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced

• 1 tsp dried basil or some fresh basil if you prefer (for garnish)

• 1 tsp grape seed oil (for greasing dish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the “Meat” Layer:

• In a large skillet over medium-low heat, combine cooked quinoa, cooked lentils, bell pepper, sweet peppers, green onions, and seasonings.

• Stir well and cook for 3-5 minutes, just until the peppers soften slightly. Remove from heat.

2. Prepare the “Cheese” Layer:

• Blend soaked Brazil nuts, water, nut milk, basil, oregano, shallot, and sea salt in a food processor or blender until the texture resembles ricotta cheese.

3. Assemble the Lasagna:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

• Lightly grease a 9x9-inch casserole dish with grape seed oil.

• Layer zucchini slices evenly at the bottom.

• Spread half of the “meat” mixture over the zucchini.

• Spoon half of the “cheese” mixture on top.

• Add a layer of sliced Roma tomatoes.

• Repeat the layers once more (zucchini, “meat,” “cheese,” tomatoes).

• Finish with a final layer of sliced tomatoes and sprinkle dried basil on top.

4. Bake:

• Bake uncovered for 20 minutes at 350°F.

• Remove from oven and allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy this lasagna on its own or pair it with a fresh green salad for a nourishing meal!

#veganlasagna #plantbasedrecipes #healthyeating