Vegetable Lasagne Soup Recipe

Vegetable Lasagne Soup offers a creative spin on the classic Italian dish, transforming it into a lighter, more versatile option. You’ll saute onions, garlic, and a medley of vegetables in olive oil before adding crushed tomatoes, broth, and aromatic herbs. Cook lasagne noodles until al dente, then incorporate fresh spinach. Garnish with ricotta and Parmesan cheese for that authentic lasagne flavor. This hearty soup captures the essence of traditional lasagne while packing in nutritious vegetables. You can easily customize it with different vegetables, make it vegan, or add meat for variety. Dive deeper to discover top tips and nutritional information for this comforting dish.

Recipe and Preparation

Vegetable Lasagne Soup

This innovative twist on classic lasagna transforms the beloved Italian dish into a comforting, hearty soup. Packed with a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs, this soup captures the essence of traditional lasagne while offering a lighter, more versatile option. The broken lasagne noodles and creamy ricotta swirls evoke the layered textures of the original, while the rich tomato broth brings everything together in a warm, satisfying bowl. Perfect for cooler evenings or when you’re craving the flavors of lasagne without the lengthy baking time, this soup is both nutritious and deeply flavorful.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 lasagna noodles, broken into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add zucchini and bell pepper, cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried basil, and oregano. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Add broken lasagna noodles to the soup. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until noodles are al dente.
6. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Ladle soup into bowls. Top each serving with a dollop of ricotta cheese, a sprinkle of Parmesan, and fresh basil leaves.

Top Tips

1. Break lasagna noodles into varying sizes for interesting texture.
2. For a smoother soup, blend a portion of the vegetables before adding the noodles.
3. Make it ahead and add the noodles when reheating to prevent them from becoming mushy.
4. Use fresh herbs if available for brighter flavors.
5. Adjust the consistency by adding more broth if the soup thickens too much upon standing.
6. For a richer flavor, add a Parmesan rind while simmering the soup.

Variations

1. Meat Lover’s Version: Add cooked and crumbled Italian sausage or ground beef.
2. Vegan Option: Use plant-based ricotta and nutritional yeast instead of dairy cheeses.
3. Gluten-Free: Substitute regular lasagna noodles with gluten-free lasagna or other pasta shapes.
4. Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
5. Roasted Vegetable: Use roasted vegetables like eggplant and tomatoes for a deeper flavor.
6. Creamy Version: Stir in some heavy cream or coconut milk for added richness.

Nutritional Guide

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Servings	6
Calories	280
Fat	11g
Carbohydrates	35g
Protein	12g
Fiber	5g

This vegetable lasagna soup is a nutritious option, rich in vitamins and minerals from the variety of vegetables. The use of whole grain lasagna noodles can increase the fiber content, promoting digestive health. The ricotta cheese provides calcium and protein, while the olive oil offers heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. This soup is lower in calories compared to traditional lasagna, making it a great option for those watching their calorie intake while still enjoying comforting Italian flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Vegetable Lasagna Soup for Later Consumption?

You can freeze this soup for future enjoyment. For best soup storage, cool it completely before freezing in airtight containers. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm on the stovetop, stirring occasionally for even heat distribution.

What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve With This Soup?

You’ll enhance your dining experience with classic pairings like breadsticks and salad. For a more innovative approach, try garlic bread and roasted vegetables. These sides complement the flavors while adding texture and nutritional variety to your meal.

How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free?

You can make it gluten-free by using alternative ingredients like gluten-free lasagna noodles or zucchini ribbons. For dairy-free, substitute with plant-based cheese and milk. Modify cooking methods by adjusting cooking times for these substitutions.

Is It Possible to Prepare This Soup in a Slow Cooker?

You can adapt this soup for slow cookers. Adjust cooking time to 4-6 hours on low. Consider ingredient substitutions for dietary restrictions. Layer components, adding pasta last to prevent overcooking. Experiment with innovative vegetable combinations for unique flavors.

What Vegetables Work Best as Substitutes in This Recipe?

You’ll find mushrooms, zucchini, carrots, and squash excellent substitutes. For innovative twists, try incorporating spinach, eggplant, bell peppers, or broccoli. These vegetables offer diverse textures and flavors, enhancing the dish’s nutritional profile and culinary appeal.

Before You Go

You’ve now created a hearty, nutritious vegetable lasagna soup that combines the flavors of traditional lasagna with the comfort of a warm soup. By layering the ingredients and simmering them together, you’ve allowed the flavors to meld perfectly. The broken lasagna noodles provide the pasta element without overwhelming the dish. This soup’s versatility allows for easy customization with your preferred vegetables or protein additions. Serve it immediately for best taste and texture.