Lasagna

Lasagna with Homemade Meat and Tomato Sauce: A Family Recipe

Who doesn't love a delicious serving of lasagna? This classic dish, with rich layers of pasta, meat, and tomato sauce, is perfect for a family dinner or to impress guests. By its nature, lasagna is a versatile recipe that can be adapted to individual preferences. I will share with you a simple yet flavorful recipe that will turn every meal into a memorable experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 70-80 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 1 box of lasagna sheets (preferably Italian-made)
- 1 homemade sausage (approximately 300 g)
- 150 g salty cheese (preferably telemea or feta)
- 150 g grated cheese or parmesan
- 5 fresh tomatoes
- 0.5 l tomato juice
- 1 medium onion
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste

The story behind the recipe:

Lasagna is a dish with deep roots in culinary tradition, often associated with family meals and festive occasions. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family having its own version, adapted to tastes and available ingredients. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, lasagna brings friends and family together around the table.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the lasagna sheets:

Start by bringing a large pot of water to a boil and add a little olive oil. Add the lasagna sheets, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Boil them for about 5 minutes, being careful not to make them too soft. They should be firm enough to handle easily. Once cooked, carefully remove them and let them drain on a kitchen towel.

2. Preparing the tomato sauce:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.

Now, add the peeled and chopped tomatoes along with the tomato juice. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors combine beautifully.

3. Preparing the meat:

In a separate skillet, fry the sliced homemade sausage for 5-7 minutes until it becomes golden and crispy. This step will add a special flavor to the lasagna.

4. Assembling the lasagna:

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil. Start with a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish. Add a first layer of lasagna sheets, ensuring they overlap slightly.

Add a new layer of tomato sauce, followed by the fried sausage. Continue with another layer of lasagna sheets, then tomato sauce and crumbled salty cheese. Repeat the process, alternating layers of pasta, sauce, sausage, salty cheese, and grated cheese or parmesan. Make sure the last layer is a layer of tomato sauce for a delicious crust.

5. Baking:

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and let it bake for another 10-20 minutes until the surface becomes golden and appetizing.

6. Serving:

Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm, alongside a crunchy green salad and a bottle of red wine. The rich taste of the lasagna pairs perfectly with a refined drink.

Practical Tips:

- For an even tastier lasagna, you can add vegetables like zucchini or eggplant between the layers, or even sautéed mushrooms.
- If you prefer a lighter version, you can use whole wheat or gluten-free lasagna sheets.
- For an extra flavor boost, add spices like oregano or basil to the tomato sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use store-bought lasagna sheets? Yes, make sure to follow the instructions on the package for proper preparation.
- How much lasagna can I prepare at once? This recipe is sufficient for 6 servings, but you can double the ingredients for a larger dish.
- How can I store lasagna? You can keep leftovers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze it to enjoy later.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

A serving of lasagna contains approximately 500-600 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It provides a good source of protein from the meat, calcium from the cheese, and vitamins from the tomatoes, making this dish not only delicious but also nutritious.

I hope this recipe for lasagna with homemade meat and tomato sauce brings you joy and flavor in the kitchen. Don't hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and add your personal touch. Cooking is an art, and every dish tells a story. Enjoy your meal!