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### Step 4: Prepare the Tomato Sauce (Optional)
If you prefer to make your own tomato sauce, heat **olive oil** in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the **diced onion** and cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the **minced garlic** and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the **crushed tomatoes**, **dried basil**, and **oregano** to the saucepan. Stir to combine and bring the sauce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with **salt** and **pepper** to taste.
Once the sauce is ready, remove it from the heat and set it aside. If you’re short on time, you can also use your favorite store-bought marinara or tomato sauce. Just make sure to choose one that’s not too sweet, as the rich cheeses and spinach will provide enough flavor.
### Step 5: Assemble the Lasagna
Now comes the fun part—assembling your lasagna. Preheat your oven to **375°F (190°C)**.
In a 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of tomato sauce on the bottom of the dish. This will prevent the noodles from sticking and add flavor. Then, layer your lasagna as follows:
1. **Noodle Layer**: Start with a layer of cooked lasagna noodles, slightly overlapping them if necessary.
2. **Cheese and Spinach Mixture**: Spread half of the spinach and cheese mixture over the noodles.
3. **Tomato Sauce**: Spoon half of the tomato sauce over the cheese layer, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
4. **Repeat**: Add another layer of noodles, followed by the remaining spinach and cheese mixture, and then the remaining tomato sauce.
5. **Top Layer**: Finish off with a final layer of noodles. Spread any remaining tomato sauce on top, and then sprinkle the **remaining shredded mozzarella** and **grated Parmesan cheese** over the top.
### Step 6: Bake the Lasagna
Cover the baking dish with **aluminum foil** and bake the lasagna in the preheated oven for **30 minutes**. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional **10-15 minutes**, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Once the lasagna is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 10 minutes before slicing. This will help the layers set and make it easier to serve.
### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the lasagna into squares and serve hot. Garnish with fresh **basil** or **parsley** for a fresh, vibrant touch. You can serve this dish alongside a crisp **salad**, **garlic bread**, or any other side dishes of your choice.
## Why You’ll Love Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta (3 Cheese)
1. **A Hearty Vegetarian Option**: Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a healthier alternative to meat-based lasagna, this recipe is the perfect choice. Packed with spinach, ricotta, and other cheeses, this dish offers a satisfying meal without the need for meat.
2. **Rich and Flavorful**: The combination of three types of cheese—**ricotta**, **mozzarella**, and **parmesan**—gives this lasagna a creamy, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the earthy spinach. The creamy filling is balanced by the tanginess of the tomato sauce, making each bite a perfect harmony of flavors.
3. **Comforting and Satisfying**: Lasagna is the ultimate comfort food, and this spinach lasagna hits all the right notes. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it for a family gathering, it’s a dish that always brings people together.
4. **Easy to Make in Advance**: Lasagna is one of those dishes that actually improves with time. You can assemble the lasagna the night before, store it in the fridge, and simply bake it the next day. This makes it a fantastic meal for busy weeks or when you’re hosting guests.
## Conclusion
This **Spinach Lasagna with Ricotta (3 Cheese)** is the perfect balance of creamy, cheesy goodness and fresh, nutritious spinach. It’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by everyone, whether you’re a vegetarian or just craving a comforting, indulgent meal. With simple ingredients and a few steps, you can create a dish that is sure to become a family favorite for years to come. Enjoy this delicious lasagna, and don’t forget to savor every bite!
