Ingredients (Serves 4–5)
For the Courgette Layers:
Courgettes (zucchini) – 3 large, thinly sliced lengthwise
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Salt – ½ tsp
Black pepper – ½ tsp
For the Creamy Sauce:
Unsalted butter – 2 tbsp
Plain flour – 2 tbsp
Whole milk – 2 cups
Ricotta cheese – ½ cup
Grated cheddar or mozzarella – ½ cup
Nutmeg – a pinch
Salt – to taste
Black pepper – to taste
For the Tomato Base:
Olive oil – 1 tbsp
Onion – 1, finely chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Chopped tomatoes – 1 tin (400 g)
Tomato purée – 1 tbsp
Dried oregano – 1 tsp
Dried basil – 1 tsp
Red chilli flakes – ½ tsp (optional)
For Topping:
Grated mozzarella – ½ cup
Parmesan cheese – ¼ cup
Fresh basil leaves – for garnish
Culinary Process
- Prepare the Courgette Layers
Start by preheating your oven to 190°C (375°F). Using a mandoline or sharp knife, slice the courgettes lengthwise into thin ribbons, about 2–3 mm thick. Lay them out on a tray, sprinkle with a little salt, and let them sit for 10 minutes to release excess water. Pat them dry with paper towels.
Brush lightly with olive oil and season with black pepper. This ensures your lasagne stays creamy, not watery — the key to perfecting this healthy vegetarian version. - Make the Tomato Sauce
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until soft and golden, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in chopped tomatoes, tomato purée, oregano, basil, chilli flakes, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 10–12 minutes until it thickens and deepens in colour. The tomato base forms the heart of this lasagne, adding rich Mediterranean flavour. - Prepare the Creamy White Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to form a smooth roux. Gradually pour in warm milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Simmer until the sauce thickens — it should coat the back of a spoon.
Stir in ricotta, cheddar or mozzarella, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. The result is a velvety, rich sauce that perfectly complements the tomato base and delicate courgette layers. - Assemble the Lasagne
In a baking dish, start by spreading a thin layer of tomato sauce. Add a layer of courgette ribbons, overlapping slightly like lasagne sheets. Spread a layer of creamy sauce over the courgette, followed by a sprinkling of cheese. Repeat the layers — tomato, courgette, cream — until you reach the top.
Finish with a final layer of creamy sauce and a generous sprinkle of mozzarella and parmesan. - Bake to Golden Perfection
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbling. Allow the lasagne to rest for 10 minutes before slicing — this helps the layers hold together beautifully. Serving Suggestions
Light Meal: Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette for a fresh contrast.
Dinner Delight: Serve alongside wholegrain garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a balanced dinner.
Entertaining Tip: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil before serving — a touch that elevates presentation and flavour.
This healthy vegetarian lasagne looks elegant on any table and makes an impressive centrepiece for gatherings or Sunday family meals.
Nutritional Breakdown (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 kcal |
| Protein | 16 g |
| Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Sugars | 7 g |
| Fat | 18 g |
| Saturated Fat | 8 g |
| Fibre | 3 g |
| Sodium | 410 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and based on 1 of 5 servings.
This dish offers a balanced mix of protein from ricotta and cheese, healthy fats from olive oil, and antioxidants from courgette and tomatoes — a perfect fit for healthy vegetarian diets that prioritise nourishment without compromising on taste.
Why It’s a Hit in UK Kitchens
Light yet satisfying: Swapping pasta for courgette keeps the dish hearty but easy on calories.
Budget-friendly ingredients: Everything is easily available from UK supermarkets.
Ideal for all seasons: Fresh courgette pairs beautifully with comforting cheese and creamy sauce — perfect year-round.
Family-approved: Even meat-lovers won’t miss the traditional lasagne layers!
This healthy vegetarian twist proves you can indulge without guilt, combining comfort food with wellness trends that are thriving across the UK.
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Courgette Lasagne
Dry the courgettes properly: Excess moisture is the main culprit behind soggy lasagne.
Layer thinly: Alternate light layers of sauce and courgette for a balanced structure.
Add herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley can bring extra aroma to your sauce.
Make ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate — just bake when ready to serve!
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Courgette Lasagne is comfort and nutrition rolled into one. It’s rich, creamy, and utterly satisfying — yet surprisingly light on calories and carbs. Ideal for vegetarians or anyone exploring plant-based options in the UK, it proves that wholesome cooking can still feel indulgent.
From the first golden forkful to the last creamy bite, this dish is a celebration of flavour, freshness, and balance. It’s time to redefine lasagne nights — the healthy vegetarian way!