WFPB Vegetable Lasagne Recipe

Here’s yor WFPB vegetable lasagne recipe.

WFPB Vegetable Lasagne recipe.

This recipe is oil-free and low-sodium. It features a cashew-based “ricotta” and a veggie-rich tomato sau

Yields: 8-10 servings

Prep Time: 45 minutes

Cook Time: 40-50 minutes

I. Ingredients

1. The Tomato-Vegetable Sauce (The Base)

IngredientQuantityNote
Crushed Tomatoes (no salt added)2 (28 oz) cansThe cornerstone of the sauce.
Onion, diced1 largeSautéed dry (or in a splash of water/broth) for flavor.
Garlic, minced4-6 clovesThe more, the merrier!
Zucchini, diced2 mediumAdds texture and moisture.
Mushrooms (e.g., cremini), sliced16 ozProvides a deep, umami flavor.
Carrots, shredded or finely diced1 cupAdds natural sweetness and color.
Red Bell Pepper, diced1 largeFor color and Vitamin C.
Dried Basil, Oregano, Thyme1 tsp eachClassic Italian herb blend.
Red Pepper Flakes (optional)1/4 tspFor a little heat.
Vegetable Broth (no salt added)1/2 cupFor dry-sautéing and thinness.

2. The WFPB “Ricotta” (The Creamy Layer)

IngredientQuantityNote
Raw Cashews, soaked1 cupSoak in hot water for 30 min, then drain. Essential for creaminess.
Tofu (extra-firm, pressed)1 block (14 oz)Adds protein and body; crumble it up.
Nutritional Yeast1/4 cupProvides a cheesy, savory flavor.
Lemon Juice2 TbspBrightens the flavor and mimics the tang of cheese.
Garlic Powder1 tsp
Dried Basil & Oregano1/2 tsp each
Plant Milk (unsweetened, unflavored)1/4 – 1/2 cupTo help blend the cashews smooth.

3. The Layers

IngredientQuantityNote
Whole Wheat Lasagne Noodles9-12 sheetsChoose whole grain for fiber and nutrients.
Fresh Spinach5 oz package (or 5 cups)No need to pre-cook; it wilts in the oven.

II. Instructions (The Evidence-Based Approach)

1. Prepare the Whole Wheat Lasagne Noodles

  • Boil the lasagne noodles according to package directions until al dente (slightly firm). Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Tomato-Vegetable Sauce

  • Dry Sauté: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion with a splash of vegetable broth or water (instead of oil). Cook until translucent (5-7 minutes).
  • Build the Flavor: Add the garlic, zucchini, mushrooms, carrots, and bell pepper. Cook the vegetables until they soften, which takes about 10 minutes. If they stick, add small amounts of broth.
  • Simmer: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, herbs, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat and cook, uncovered, for about 15-20 minutes to let the flavors deepen.

3. Create the WFPB “Ricotta”

  • Blend the Cream: In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, and plant milk. Blend until perfectly smooth and creamy.
  • Combine: In a bowl, add the smooth cashew cream and the crumbled tofu. Gently mix with a fork, incorporating the dry herbs. Do not overmix. This is your nutrient-dense, high-protein cheese substitute.

4. Assemble the Lasagne

  • Preheat the oven to 375^F or 190^C.
  • Bottom Layer: Spread a thin layer of the tomato-vegetable sauce on the bottom of 9 X 13-inch baking dish.
  • Layer 1: Place 3-4 lasagne noodles over the sauce.
  • Layer 2 (Ricotta): Drop spoonfuls of the WFPB “ricotta” over the noodles and gently spread it out.
  • Layer 3 (Greens): Spread about half of the fresh spinach evenly over the ricotta.
  • Layer 4 (Sauce): Spoon about a quarter of the remaining tomato-vegetable sauce over the spinach.
  • Repeat: Add another layer of noodles, the remaining ricotta, the remaining spinach, and a second layer of sauce.
  • Top Layer: Finish with a final layer of noodles and the rest of the tomato-vegetable sauce.

5. Bake

  • Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
  • Bake for 30 minutes.
  • Uncover and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top is slightly caramelized.
  • Rest: Let the lasagne rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the layers to set and prevents it from falling apart.

Why this is Evidence-Based WFPB:

  • Whole Grains: Uses whole wheat noodles for more fiber, B vitamins, and complex carbs instead of refined white flour.
  • No Added Oils: All vegetables are dry-sautéed or cooked in broth. This method cuts out empty calories and saturated fat from added oils.
  • Nutrient-Dense Cream: This “ricotta” is made from whole, raw cashews. They offer healthy fats, magnesium, and Vitamin K. It also has tofu for complete protein and calcium. This makes it a great alternative to high-fat dairy cheese.
  • Veggie-Focused: This sauce has 5 different vegetables. It boosts your daily fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
  • Low Sodium: Relies on herbs, spices, garlic, onion, and lemon juice for flavor, keeping added sodium levels minimal.


Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *