Instructions:
Prepping the Zucchini:
- Place the zucchini slices on a paper towel and sprinkle them with salt. Let them sit for about 15-20 minutes to release excess moisture. Pat them dry with another paper towel.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Brush the zucchini slices with a little olive oil on both sides. You can also grill or lightly sauté them for a few minutes on each side until they’re slightly softened.
Making the Tofu Ricotta:
- In a bowl, crumble the pressed tofu with your hands to achieve a ricotta-like texture.
- Add the nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
Preparing the Tomato Sauce:
- In a separate bowl, mix the tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.
Assembling the Lasagna:
- In a baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom.
- Arrange a layer of zucchini slices over the sauce.
- Spread a portion of the tofu ricotta over the zucchini layer.
- Add a layer of baby spinach or leafy greens.
- Repeat the layers: tomato sauce, zucchini, tofu ricotta, and spinach. You can repeat these layers until your ingredients are used up, usually creating 2-3 layers.
- Top the lasagna with a final layer of zucchini slices.
- If desired, sprinkle vegan shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
Baking:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbly and the top is lightly browned.
- Allow the lasagna to cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Serve: Enjoy your vegan zucchini lasagna with a side salad for a complete meal.
This vegan zucchini lasagna is rich in flavor and offers a satisfying, plant-based twist on the classic comfort food. It’s perfect for those seeking a lighter, dairy-free, and gluten-free lasagna option.