Rosemary Butternut Squash Lasagna Recipe
I came up with this recipe when our garden was brimming with butternut squash. This is now our favorite way to use it.
I came up with this recipe when our garden was brimming with butternut squash. This is now our favorite way to use it.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt divided
- 6 garlic cloves minced
- 1 tablespoon minced fresh rosemary
- 4 cups fat-free milk
- 1-1/3 cups shredded parmesan cheese
- 9 uncooked whole grain lasagna noodles
- 1 medium butternut squash (about 3 pounds) peeled and cut crosswise into 1/4-inch slices
- Carbohydrate 9.50124458717349 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.984326042108458 g
- Fiber 0.40287708798764 g
- Protein 1.31168562551465 g
- Saturated Fat 0.144085791739482 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving (121g)
- Sodium 149.299416730636 mg
- Sugar 9.09836749918585 g
- Trans Fat 0.0662805416976651 g
- Calories 53 calories
Step-by-step
- Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
- Cook noodles according to package directions; drain.
- In a large bowl, combine squash, oil and 1/2 teaspoon salt; toss to coat. Transfer to a 15x10x1-in. baking pan coated with cooking spray. Bake 10-15 minutes or until tender; remove from oven. Reduce heat to 375 degrees.
- Place flour and remaining salt in a large saucepan; gradually whisk in milk. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook and stir 1-2 minutes or until thickened. Stir in garlic and rosemary.
- Spread 1 cup sauce into a 13x9-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Layer with three noodles, 1/3 cup cheese, a third of the squash and 1 cup sauce. Repeat layers twice. Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Cover and bake 40 minutes. Uncover; bake 10 minutes or until bubbly and top is lightly browned. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.
My Unexpected Culinary Adventure: Rosemary Butternut Squash Lasagna
As a busy professional, my life often revolves around deadlines and meetings. My kitchen, sadly, frequently takes a backseat. Quick meals and takeout often dominate my week, leaving little time for the culinary creativity I secretly crave. But then, my garden decided to intervene.
One autumn afternoon, I found myself overwhelmed with a bounty of butternut squash from my small, yet surprisingly productive, garden patch. The vibrant orange squash seemed to beckon me, demanding to be transformed into something more than just simple soup or roasted wedges. It was then that the idea struck me: a lasagna. But not just any lasagna. A lasagna infused with the fragrant, earthy notes of rosemary, a herb that perfectly complements the sweet squash.
The recipe, born from a moment of spontaneous inspiration, quickly became a family favorite. The combination of creamy, cheesy layers, tender butternut squash, and the subtle herbal undertones of rosemary creates a symphony of flavors. It's comforting, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make, even on a busy weeknight.
The process itself is a therapeutic one. The rhythmic layering of noodles, squash, and creamy sauce becomes a meditative act, a welcome escape from the demands of my day. The aroma that fills the kitchen during baking is intoxicating, promising a warm and flavorful reward for my efforts. And the end result? A lasagna that's as visually appealing as it is delicious, a testament to the magic that can happen when spontaneity meets a well-stocked pantry.
This Rosemary Butternut Squash Lasagna isn't just a dish; it's a reminder to embrace the unexpected moments in life, to find joy in simple acts like cooking, and to appreciate the abundance nature can offer. It's a testament to the power of fresh, seasonal ingredients and the satisfaction of transforming humble produce into something truly special.
The lasagna's versatility is another aspect I cherish. It's easily adaptable to dietary preferences; feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, or substitute gluten-free pasta for a completely different twist. The core flavors remain consistent and delightful, regardless of minor adjustments.
I've shared this recipe countless times, often finding myself describing the experience of creating it as much as the finished dish itself. It's more than just a meal; it's a memory, a taste of autumn, and a reminder to always make time for the things that bring us joy, even if it's just a simple, delicious lasagna.
So, I invite you to try this recipe and experience the magic for yourself. Let the warmth of the oven, the aroma of rosemary, and the taste of autumn fill your kitchen with happiness. And, perhaps, inspire your own unexpected culinary adventure.
