This Vegan Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, layered with rich tomato sauce, creamy cashew ricotta, sautéed vegetables, and a generous amount of vegan mozzarella for the perfect melt. It’s hearty, satisfying, and completely plant-based, making it an ideal dish for vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just craving a delicious home-cooked meal, this lasagna will become your go-to recipe.
The Best Vegan Lasagna Recipe
Serves: 6-8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
For the Vegan Ricotta:
- 1 1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked in water for at least 4 hours or overnight (or use cashew butter)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 garlic clove
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup water (or more, depending on desired consistency)
For the Lasagna:
- 12 lasagna noodles (gluten-free if needed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 1/2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce (or homemade tomato sauce)
- 1 cup vegan mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cashew Ricotta:
- In a high-speed blender or food processor, combine the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Add water a little at a time and blend until smooth and creamy. If needed, adjust the water for the desired consistency, keeping it thick but spreadable.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.
2. Cook the Lasagna Noodles:
- Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and rinse with cold water to prevent them from sticking. Set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened.
- Add the zucchini, bell pepper, and carrot, and cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened but still have a bit of bite.
- Stir in the spinach and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Assemble the Lasagna:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom.
- Place a layer of lasagna noodles on top of the sauce.
- Spread a generous layer of cashew ricotta over the noodles.
- Top with a portion of the sautéed vegetable mixture.
- Add another layer of marinara sauce over the vegetables, followed by a sprinkle of vegan mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers until you’ve used up all the noodles, ricotta, vegetables, and sauce, finishing with a final layer of sauce and a generous topping of vegan mozzarella.
5. Bake the Lasagna:
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- After 25 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the lasagna is bubbling and the cheese is melted and golden.
- Let the lasagna cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, if desired. Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal!
Tips for the Best Vegan Lasagna:
- Make it Ahead: This lasagna can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for 1-2 days. Simply bake it when you’re ready to serve, or freeze it for a later meal (just be sure to cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap).
- Customizable Vegetables: Feel free to swap in any of your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or even roasted butternut squash for extra flavor.
- Homemade Tomato Sauce: For an extra touch, make your own tomato sauce with garlic, onions, fresh tomatoes, and herbs. This gives your lasagna a fresh and vibrant flavor.
- Vegan Mozzarella: If you can’t find store-bought vegan mozzarella, make your own using cashews, nutritional yeast, and tapioca flour for a stretchy, melty cheese.
Why This Vegan Lasagna is the Best:
- Creamy Cashew Ricotta: The cashew ricotta is incredibly creamy and adds a rich, cheesy flavor without the dairy.
- Packed with Vegetables: It’s loaded with healthy veggies, making this lasagna as nutritious as it is comforting.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: It keeps well in the fridge and is easy to reheat, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.
- Non-Vegan Approved: This lasagna is so delicious and hearty, even non-vegans will be asking for seconds!
This Vegan Lasagna is a crowd-pleasing, satisfying dish that brings all the comfort of a traditional lasagna without the dairy or meat. With layers of flavorful tomato sauce, creamy cashew ricotta, and tender vegetables, it’s the perfect meal for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering!
