Ingredients

  • 454 g light ricotta cheese
  • 3 1/2 lbs ripe tomatoes (9 to 10 round or 15 plum)
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 12 whole wheat lasagna noodles
  • 2 heads escarole
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup grated romano cheese
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Method

  • Place ricotta in fine sieve set over bowl.
  • Slice tomatoes crosswise into thirds. Place on parchment paper-lined rimmed baking sheet; sprinkle with 2 tbsp (30 mL) of the oil, 1/2 tsp (2 mL) of the salt and pepper. Roast in 450°F (230°C) oven until beginning to brown slightly at edges, about 45 minutes.
  • Meanwhile, in large pot of boiling salted water, boil noodles until tender but firm, about 12 minutes. Drain; chill under cold water and drain again. Set aside.
  • Cut off stem end of escarole to separate leaves. In large pot of boiling water, blanch until tender, about 4 minutes. Drain; chill under cold water. Drain again; using hands, forcefully press out excess moisture. Chop and transfer to bowl.
  • In small nonstick skillet or saucepan, heat remaining oil over medium heat. Add garlic and remaining salt; fry until soft and fragrant, 1 to 2 minutes. Add to escarole along with drained ricotta, half of the Romano cheese, flour, egg and nutmeg; mix thoroughly.
  • In greased 13- x 9-inch (3 L) baking dish, lay 3 noodles. Top with half of the ricotta mixture, spreading to coat evenly. Cover with another layer of noodles; top with half of the tomatoes. Sprinkle tomatoes with half of the oregano and half of the remaining cheese. Repeat layering.
  • Cover with foil; bake in 375°F (190°C) oven for 30 minutes. Uncover and bake for 25 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes before serving.