Lasagna

Lasagna: An Italian Delicacy with a Personal Touch

Lasagna is an iconic dish of Italian cuisine, often associated with family meals and special occasions. This delicious recipe for lasagna with ground beef and creamy sauces is sure to become your favorite. Whether you're preparing for a family dinner or looking to impress guests, this lasagna will bring a smile to everyone's face.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6-8

Ingredients:
- 1 package of lasagna sheets (250g)
- 500g ground beef
- 2 medium onions
- 1 generous bunch of finely chopped fresh dill
- 1 egg
- 100g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 can of tomato pulp (450g)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian spices (thyme, basil, coriander)
- 50g butter
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 400-450ml milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 50ml oil

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Onion and Meat:
Start by finely chopping the onion. In a skillet, add 50ml of oil and sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent. Add salt and pepper to enhance the flavors. Once the onion is sautéed, add the ground beef. Cook the meat, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and well cooked. This step is essential for adding depth and flavor to the dish.

2. Preparing the White Sauce:
In a saucepan, melt the butter and add the flour, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to create a roux. Gradually add the milk, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Season with salt and pepper. The sauce should have a consistency similar to that of a thinner béchamel. Once it reaches the desired consistency, set it aside.

3. Preparing the Tomato Sauce:
In another saucepan, add a tablespoon of oil and the tomato pulp. Add the Italian spices and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to develop the flavors. This vibrant sauce will add a delicious contrast to the white sauce and meat.

4. Finalizing the Filling:
Let the sautéed meat cool slightly, then add the chopped dill and the egg. Mix well to combine the ingredients. The dill will add a fresh and aromatic note, perfect for this combination.

5. Assembling the Lasagna:
In a 20x26 cm baking dish, start assembling the lasagna. Place a layer of white sauce at the bottom of the dish, followed by a layer of red sauce, then lay down the lasagna sheets (which you can boil for 5 minutes to soften, then rinse under cold water to prevent sticking). Continue with the white sauce, red sauce, meat, and grated Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of red sauce and white sauce, topping with Parmesan at the end.

6. Baking the Lasagna:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Cover the dish with aluminum foil (or leave it uncovered if you prefer a crunchier crust) and bake for 30-40 minutes, until the lasagna is well browned and hot inside.

7. Serving:
The lasagna is served hot, cut into generous portions. You can add a fresh green salad on top for a refreshing contrast or a spoonful of sour cream for extra creaminess.

Practical Tips:
- If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can add sautéed garlic to the tomato sauce.
- Instead of ground beef, you can use chicken or pork, depending on your preferences.
- Make sure the lasagna sheets are well boiled and drained to avoid a sticky texture.
- Lasagna can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge, tasting even better the next day.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of lasagna contains approximately 450 calories, depending on the exact ingredients used. This is a hearty meal, rich in protein from the meat, but also in calcium from the cheese. It is an excellent choice for a nutritious dinner, but, like any dish, moderation is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use whole grain or gluten-free lasagna sheets? Yes, there are excellent options available on the market that fit these diets.
- Can lasagna be frozen? Yes, you can freeze lasagna before baking. Make sure to cover it well to avoid freezer burn.
- What drinks pair well with lasagna? A dry red wine, such as Chianti or Merlot, will perfectly complement the flavors of the dish.

Lasagna is not just a meal, but a culinary experience! I encourage you to prepare it with love and enjoy it with your loved ones. Bon appétit!