Pesto Lasagna Rolls: A Fresh Twist on a Classic Dish

Elevate your lasagna game with our Pesto Lasagna Rolls, a delightful and fresh twist on the traditional lasagna. These rolls combine the creamy richness of ricotta and mozzarella with the vibrant flavors of basil pesto, all wrapped up in tender lasagna noodles. Perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering, this dish is both impressive and easy to prepare. Let’s dive into this delicious and comforting recipe!

Ingredients

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg
• 1 cup basil pesto
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
2. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a baking sheet to prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, chopped spinach, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Mix until well combined.
4. Spread 1/4 cup of the ricotta mixture evenly over each lasagna noodle. Top with a thin layer of basil pesto.
5. Roll up each noodle tightly and place them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
6. Pour the marinara sauce over the lasagna rolls, covering them evenly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese on top.
7. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves before serving.
9. Serve warm and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!

How to Prepare

The secret to these delicious lasagna rolls lies in the harmonious blend of creamy ricotta, fresh spinach, and aromatic basil pesto. Rolling the lasagna noodles with the filling ensures each bite is packed with flavor. Baking them in marinara sauce keeps the rolls moist and adds a comforting tomato base. The final touch of melted mozzarella and fresh basil makes this dish truly irresistible.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 25 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: About 55 minutes

Servings

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.

FAQs

• Can I use store-bought pesto? Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly, but homemade pesto can add a fresher taste.
• Can I make this dish ahead of time? Absolutely! Assemble the rolls and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Adjust baking time if needed.
• What can I serve with these lasagna rolls? A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables make great side dishes.
• How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
• Can I freeze the lasagna rolls? Yes, freeze the rolls before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.