Why Lasagne is on Our 10-Recipe Kitchen Roster All Year

If there’s one dish that earns its spot in our 10-recipe kitchen, it’s lasagne. This layered classic evolves effortlessly with the seasons. . Whether it’s a hearty, cosy dinner in the depths of winter or a lighter, veggie-packed meal in summer, lasagne always delivers comfort and versatility.

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Here’s how lasagne stays a favourite all year round:

Winter Lasagne: Hearty and Warming

In winter, lasagne becomes the definition of comfort food. I lean into rich, warming flavours with a base of tinned tomatoes cooked down into a thick sauce, sometimes adding bone broth or meat stock for extra depth. For protein, ground beef is always a solid option, but sometimes I take it up a notch with slow-cooked meats like shredded beef brisket or even lamb for a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth layer.

The cheese sauce gets a little more indulgent—perhaps a classic béchamel or even a blend of ricotta and mozzarella.

For vegetables, winter calls for heartier options like sautéed leeks, grated carrots, or cubes of roasted pumpkin. These add sweetness and texture to balance the richness. Paired with layers of pasta and a bubbling top of golden cheese, it’s the perfect dish to cosy up with on a chilly evening.

Summer Lasagne: Light and Fresh

When summer rolls around, lasagne sheds its heavy coat and takes on a fresher, lighter feel. I swap the tinned tomatoes for fresh ones—juicy, ripe, and full of sunshine. A simple sauce of chopped fresh tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and a little basil brings a burst of flavour without weighing things down.

Ground beef works beautifully in summer too, but I also love using ground chicken or turkey for a lighter protein. For a fun twist, shredded chicken can add a new texture and pair beautifully with summer vegetables.

For the cheese layer, I skip the heavy sauces and instead use crème fraiche or some sort of sour cream combined with a bit of grated Parmesan or feta for a tangy, lighter touch.

When it comes to vegetables, summer lasagne is a celebration of what’s in season. Zucchini is a must, either sliced thinly or grated and lightly salted to remove excess moisture. I’ll often add eggplant or bell peppers for a smoky sweetness or toss in some fresh spinach or chopped herbs for brightness.

Why Lasagne Works Year-Round

What makes lasagne such a perfect year-round dish is its adaptability. You can make it ahead of time, adjust the ingredients to suit what you have on hand, and customise it to fit the season. Whether you’re layering in slow-cooked meats for depth in winter or using fresh vegetables and lighter proteins for summer, lasagne always feels just right. Plus, it’s a great way to use up vegetables that might otherwise go to waste.

Whether it’s a hearty winter lasagne or a light, summer version, this dish embodies everything I love about the 10-recipe kitchen: simple, seasonal, and endlessly satisfying.

Do you have a favourite way to make lasagne? Let me know how it fits into your seasonal cooking!

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