Description
This Salmon Spinach Lasagna is a delicious twist on the classic Italian favorite, combining tender layers of lasagna noodles with a flavorful filling of cooked salmon, fresh spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese. Topped with a rich homemade white sauce and melted mozzarella, this comforting dish bakes to golden perfection. Ideal for family dinners, it offers a balanced blend of protein, greens, and cheesy goodness.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Lasagna:
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked salmon, flaked (fresh, canned, or smoked)
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or 1 cup frozen, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the White Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk (or half and half)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the White Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste (a roux).
- Thicken the Sauce: Gradually whisk in the milk, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Finish the White Sauce: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the cooked salmon, chopped spinach, ricotta cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Spread a small amount of the white sauce on the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the First Layer: Place 3 lasagna noodles in the bottom of the dish. Spread 1/3 of the salmon-spinach mixture over the noodles, followed by a thin layer of white sauce.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process twice more: noodles, salmon-spinach mixture, and white sauce.
- Add the Cheese Topping: Finish the top layer with the remaining shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the lasagna with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling.
- Let it Rest and Serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with a fresh salad or garlic bread.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh salmon if possible, but canned or smoked salmon works well too.
- If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the lasagna.
- You can substitute half and half for whole milk in the white sauce for a richer texture.
- Letting the lasagna rest before slicing helps it set and makes serving easier.
- Use aluminum foil to prevent over-browning of the cheese topping during baking.
