Thin slices of eggplant replace traditional lasagna noodles in this easy homemade vegetable lasagna. The dish is low carb, gluten free and assembling the layers of eggplant is easy. Vegetarian comfort food made simple!
Sweat Eggplant: Cut eggplant lengthwise into ⅛ inch slices (this is easiest with a mandolin slicer). Sprinkle slices evenly with salt on both sides, then set on a few layers of paper towels and set aside for 15 minutes. When finished, firmly pat eggplant as dry as possible with paper towels.
Precook Eggplant: Preheat oven to broil. Brush eggplant slices on both sides with oil, then broil for 3 to 5 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until eggplant is tender and slightly browned. You may need to work in batches. When finished, remove eggplant from oven and set temperature to 350°F (175°C).
Sauce: Heat oil in a large saute pan over medium heat. Add garlic and mushrooms, cooking uncovered until mushrooms sweat out their moisture, about 5 to 7 minutes. Add marinara, basil, salt, and crushed pepper. Cover and let gently simmer for about 10 minutes, while you prepare the rest.
Ricotta: Stir together ricotta, 1 ½ cups mozzarella, ½ cup parmesan, thawed spinach, egg, oregano, and salt.
Assemble: Into a 9×9 inch (or similar size) casserole dish, layer – ⅓ of the sauce > ⅓ of the eggplant > ⅓ of the ricotta mixture > repeat until all ingredients are used. Sprinkle with remaining ½ cup mozzarella and ½ cup parmesan.
Bake: For about 30 minutes, or until top is golden brown. Let cool slightly before serving.