Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Aubergine Lasagne is a delicious twist on the classic lasagne, featuring layers of tender aubergine (eggplant), rich tomato sauce, and creamy béchamel. This vegetarian lasagne is hearty and satisfying, with the aubergine adding a smoky, meaty texture that makes it a perfect meat-free alternative. It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

• Vegetarian Delight: Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a meat-free meal that’s still hearty and satisfying.
• Rich and Flavorful: The combination of roasted aubergine, tomato sauce, and béchamel creates layers of deep, rich flavor.
• Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with vegetables, this lasagne is a nutritious option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: This lasagne can be made ahead of time and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Family Favorite: A dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

What is Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne?

Jamie Oliver’s Aubergine Lasagne is a vegetarian version of the classic Italian dish, where slices of roasted aubergine replace or complement the pasta layers. Combined with rich tomato sauce, béchamel, and cheese, it’s a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Other Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver Chicken And Chorizo Risotto
• Jamie Oliver Chicken And Chorizo Stew
• Jamie Oliver Lasagne

Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne Ingredients

For the Roasted Aubergine:

• 3 large aubergines (eggplants), sliced into 1 cm thick rounds
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 x 400g (14 oz) cans of chopped tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 75g (5 tablespoons) unsalted butter
• 75g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
• 1 liter (4 cups) milk
• Salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste

For the Lasagne:

• 300g (10 oz) lasagne sheets (fresh or dried)
• 150g (5 oz) grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese
• 50g (1.75 oz) grated Parmesan cheese

Step-by-Step Instructions to Prepare Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne

Step 1: Roast the Aubergine

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
• Prepare the Aubergine: Place the sliced aubergine on a baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
• Roast the Aubergine: Roast the aubergine in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through, until tender and slightly golden. Remove from the oven and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

• Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Add the Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.

Step 3: Prepare the Béchamel Sauce

• Make the Roux: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook for 2-3 minutes until it forms a paste and starts to bubble slightly.
• Add the Milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, a little at a time, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
• Season the Sauce: Season the béchamel with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Set aside.

Step 4: Assemble the Lasagne

• Layer the Lasagne: In a large baking dish, start with a layer of tomato sauce, followed by a layer of roasted aubergine, then a layer of béchamel sauce. Cover with lasagne sheets. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, finishing with a layer of béchamel sauce on top.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella or cheddar over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan.

Step 5: Bake the Lasagne

• Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the lasagne in the preheated oven and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
• Rest: Allow the lasagne to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving. This helps the layers set and makes it easier to cut.

Step 6: Serve

• Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired and serve hot with a side salad or garlic bread.

What to Serve with Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne

• Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the lasagne.
• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve with additional roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus.
• Wine Pairing: A glass of light red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with the flavors in this aubergine lasagne.

Expert Tips for Mastering Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne

• Slice Aubergine Evenly: Slicing the aubergine evenly ensures it roasts evenly and layers well in the lasagne.
• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the lasagne to rest after baking helps the layers set and makes it easier to serve.
• Use High-Quality Tomatoes: For the best flavor, use high-quality canned tomatoes or fresh tomatoes if they’re in season.
• Make It Ahead: This lasagne can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.

Variations of Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne

• Vegan Lasagne: Use plant-based milk and vegan cheese, and substitute the béchamel sauce with a cashew cream sauce.
• Gluten-Free Lasagne: Use gluten-free lasagne sheets and substitute the flour in the béchamel sauce with a gluten-free alternative.
• Mushroom Lasagne: Add sautéed mushrooms to the tomato sauce for a rich, earthy flavor.
• Spinach and Ricotta Lasagne: Add layers of spinach and ricotta cheese for a creamy, flavorful twist.

How to Store Leftovers from Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne

• Cool Completely: Allow the lasagne to cool to room temperature before storing.
• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the lasagne tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

How to Reheat Leftovers from Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne

Oven Reheating:

• Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
• Place the lasagne in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil.
• Reheat for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Microwave Reheating:

• For a quicker option, reheat individual portions in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 8g
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 650mg

FAQs

Can I make Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne ahead of time?

Yes, Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne can be made ahead of time. Assemble the lasagne, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as directed.

How do I prevent the aubergine lasagne from being watery?

To prevent the aubergine lasagne from being watery, make sure to roast the aubergine slices until they are fully cooked and slightly caramelized. This removes excess moisture. Additionally, let the lasagne rest for about 10 minutes after baking to allow the layers to set, which helps reduce any excess liquid.

Can I freeze Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne?

Yes, Jamie Oliver Aubergine Lasagne can be frozen. After baking, let the lasagne cool completely, then wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What can I substitute for béchamel sauce in this recipe?

If you prefer a lighter version or are looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the béchamel sauce with a cashew cream sauce or a tomato-based sauce. Another option is to use ricotta mixed with a bit of milk or cream to achieve a similar creamy texture.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Aubergine Lasagne is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of roasted aubergine, rich tomato sauce, and creamy béchamel, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you’re cooking for a vegetarian guest or simply looking for a delicious meat-free meal, this lasagne is a surefire way to impress. Enjoy the comforting, wholesome flavors of this classic dish!

More Jamie Oliver Recipes

• Jamie Oliver 5 Ingredients Chicken Lemon
• Jamie Oliver Chicken Thighs Curry
• Jamie Oliver Vegetarian Lasagne
• Jamie Oliver Peri Peri Chicken

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