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Vegan Lasagna

This vegan lasagna layers tender noodles with a savory tomato sauce, creamy cashew-based ricotta, and wilted spinach, creating a comforting dish with a cheesy, saucy texture. Baked until bubbling and golden, it offers a nostalgic flavor reminiscent of classic Sunday dinners, all made plant-based. The final dish has a rich, hearty appearance with a slightly crispy top and tender layers inside.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Vegan
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz lasagna noodles whole wheat or regular
  • 14 oz firm tofu drained
  • 1/2 cup cashews soaked for at least 4 hours
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/4 cup Nutritional yeast adds cheesy flavor
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
  • bunch fresh basil for flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Large pot
  • Blender
  • Spatula

Method
 

  1. Cook the lasagna noodles in a large pot of salted boiling water for about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside, drizzling with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
  2. In a blender, combine the drained tofu, soaked cashews, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy, scraping down sides as needed. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until sauce thickens and flavors meld, stirring occasionally.
  4. In a separate pan, wilt the fresh spinach over medium heat for about 2 minutes until just tender. Squeeze out excess moisture and roughly chop. Mix the wilted spinach into the tofu ricotta for extra flavor and texture.
  5. Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of your baking dish. Place a layer of cooked noodles over the sauce, then spread a generous layer of the tofu ricotta mixture on top. Repeat the layering process — noodles, sauce, ricotta, until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of sauce on top.
  6. Sprinkle nutritional yeast or vegan cheese on top for a golden finish. Cover the dish with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 35-40 minutes until bubbling and heated through.
  7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes if you'd like a crispier top. Let the lasagna rest for at least 10 minutes before slicing—this helps it set and makes serving easier.
  8. Slice into portions with a sharp knife, revealing the tender noodles, cheesy filling, and rich tomato sauce. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil if desired, and enjoy a comforting, plant-based feast.