I’ve always been a fan of a cozy, hearty meal that doesn’t take hours to prepare. One of my go-to recipes for a Sunday dinner or when I’m hosting friends is Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Lasagne. It has this perfect balance of rich flavor and comfort. The first time I made it, I was slightly intimidated by the idea of homemade lasagne, but I quickly realized it was simpler than I thought. Plus, it’s vegetarian, so it’s a great option for people with dietary restrictions or those trying to eat less meat.
It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but doesn’t require advanced cooking skills. And the best part? The spinach gives it a fresh and vibrant twist that makes it feel lighter than traditional lasagne.
Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Lasagne Recipe
This isn’t just your regular spinach lasagne. Jamie Oliver takes it up a notch by combining a creamy béchamel sauce with a rich tomato sauce, all layered between perfectly cooked sheets of lasagne. And the spinach-oh, the spinach! It’s the star of the show, providing an earthy, slightly sweet taste that complements the creamy richness of the cheese and sauce.
I remember the first time I made this for a small gathering. Everyone raved about it, and one friend even went for seconds (and thirds!). It’s just one of those dishes that feels like it could’ve been passed down through generations, even though Jamie’s version is fresh and modern.
Ingredients Needed
Before you begin cooking, make sure you have everything you need. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need for Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Lasagne:
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For The Tomato Sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can of chopped tomatoes (about 400g)
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
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For The Spinach Layer
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bag of fresh spinach (about 400g)
- Nutmeg, a pinch (this brings out the flavor of the spinach)
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For The Béchamel Sauce
- 50g butter
- 50g flour
- 500ml milk (preferably full-fat for creaminess)
- 1 tsp mustard powder (optional, but I like the subtle tang it adds)
- A pinch of salt and pepper
- 100g grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese (or a mix of both)
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Other Ingredients
- Fresh lasagne sheets (or dried if you’re short on time)
- Fresh mozzarella (optional but adds a lovely melty texture)
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Lasagne
Here’s where the magic happens. The beauty of this lasagne is in its layers. Let me walk you through it step by step:
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Make The Tomato Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a pan. Add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and aromatic.
- Pour in the chopped tomatoes, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add fresh basil leaves towards the end and let them infuse into the sauce.
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Prepare The Spinach Layer
- Heat olive oil in a separate pan. Add the onion and garlic. Sauté until golden.
- Add the spinach in batches, stirring it in until it wilts. If needed, sprinkle in a little water to help it cook down.
- Season with a pinch of nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat once it’s cooked down and fragrant.
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Make The Béchamel Sauce
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
- Gradually add the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer until the sauce thickens.
- Stir in mustard powder (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add the grated cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
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Assemble The Lasagne
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in the bottom of a baking dish. Then, layer lasagne sheets, spinach, béchamel, and mozzarella.
- Repeat the layers, finishing with a top layer of béchamel and tomato sauce. Sprinkle extra cheese on top.
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Bake
- Cover with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes to get the top golden and bubbly.
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Serve
- Let the lasagne sit for 10 minutes before cutting. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
Every ingredient in this lasagne plays a specific role in the flavor and texture. Take the spinach, for example. Spinach is high in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, but the real magic happens when it’s cooked. It wilts down and releases natural sugars, adding a subtle sweetness. The nutmeg used in the spinach layer enhances this sweetness while balancing the earthy flavor.
The béchamel sauce is another key player. The combination of butter, flour, and milk creates a smooth, creamy texture that holds the layers together and complements the acidity of the tomato sauce. The cheese adds a rich umami flavor that makes every bite comforting.
Expert Tips
- Don’t skimp on the cheese: You can use any cheese you like, but a mix of mozzarella and parmesan gives the best results. Mozzarella adds meltiness, while Parmesan brings sharpness.
- Pre-cook spinach well: Spinach releases a lot of water. If you don’t cook it down thoroughly, it could leave your lasagne too soggy.
- Layer carefully: Make sure to evenly distribute the tomato sauce, spinach, and béchamel. This ensures every bite has the perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- Rest before serving: Let the lasagne cool slightly before cutting it. It helps the layers firm up and makes it easier to slice.
Recipe Variations
While the classic version is delicious, here are some fun variations to try:
- Add Ricotta: Ricotta adds a creaminess that complements the spinach.
- Meat Lovers: You can add cooked ground beef, chicken, or turkey between the layers for a non-vegetarian twist.
- Spicy Spinach: Add a pinch of chili flakes to the spinach layer for a bit of heat.
- Herb Infused: Try adding a layer of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic touch.
Final Words
This lasagne isn’t just food. It’s an experience. It’s about creating something comforting, delicious, and full of love. The layers represent a balance of flavors and textures, which come together to create the perfect bite every time. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, it’s a dish that never fails to impress.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Lasagne Different From Other Recipes?
Jamie’s version focuses on fresh ingredients like ricotta, spinach, and a homemade béchamel sauce, making it richer and more flavorful.
Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Lasagne In Advance?
Yes! You can assemble the lasagne and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking.
Is Jamie Oliver’s Spinach Lasagne Suitable For Vegetarians?
Yes, it’s a vegetarian dish, as it uses no meat and relies on plant-based ingredients for flavor and texture.