This vibrant and wholesome vegan rainbow lasagna is packed with a variety of vegetables, making it a delightful and nutritious dinner centerpiece. The layers of colorful veggies not only make it visually appealing but also offer a range of flavors and textures.

FULL RECIPE:

Ingredients:

1. For the Pumpkin Layer:

• Pumpkin or butternut squash
• Olive oil
• Salt

2. For the Beetroot Layer:

• Beetroot
• Olive oil
• Salt

3. For the Vegan Tofu ‘Ricotta’ and Kale Layer:

• Firm tofu
• Lemon juice
• Nutritional yeast
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Fresh kale

4. For the Tomato Sauce:

• Onion
• Garlic
• Canned crushed tomatoes
• Dried herbs (such as basil and oregano)
• Salt and pepper

5. For the Bechamel Sauce:

• Vegan butter or olive oil
• All-purpose flour
• Unsweetened plant-based milk
• Nutritional yeast
• Salt and pepper

6. Additional Ingredients:

• Wholemeal lasagna sheets

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pumpkin Layer: Peel and chop the pumpkin or butternut squash into cubes. Toss with olive oil and salt, then roast in the oven until tender. Once cooked, blend into a smooth puree.

2. Prepare the Beetroot Layer: Peel and chop the beetroot into cubes. Toss with olive oil and salt, then roast until tender. After roasting, blend into a smooth puree.

3. Prepare the Vegan Tofu ‘Ricotta’ and Kale Layer: In a food processor, blend firm tofu, lemon juice, nutritional yeast, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until the mixture resembles ricotta cheese. Finely chop the fresh kale and mix it into the tofu ricotta.

4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Sauté chopped onion and garlic in a saucepan until translucent. Add canned crushed tomatoes, dried herbs, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes to develop flavors.

5. Prepare the Bechamel Sauce: In a saucepan, melt vegan butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour to form a roux and cook for a couple of minutes. Gradually add unsweetened plant-based milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Stir in nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper, and continue to cook until the sauce thickens.

6. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread a layer of the tomato sauce at the bottom of a baking dish. Place lasagna sheets over the sauce. Spread the pumpkin puree over the lasagna sheets. Add another layer of lasagna sheets. Spread more tomato sauce, followed by the tofu ricotta and kale mixture. Place another layer of lasagna sheets. Spread the beetroot puree over the sheets. Add a final layer of lasagna sheets, pour the bechamel sauce on top, and spread evenly.
7. Bake: Cover the assembled lasagna with foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

8. Serve: Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy your colorful vegan rainbow lasagna!

Nutrition Facts:

• Calories: Approximately 440 kcal
• Total Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 280 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 82 g
  • Dietary Fiber: 14 g
  • Sugars: 4 g
• Protein: 20 g
• Vitamin A: 500 IU
• Vitamin C: 18 mg
• Calcium: 130 mg
• Iron: 5.4 mg

The Beauty of a Rainbow Lasagna

One of the most striking aspects of this dish is its color. Each layer features a different vegetable that contributes to the vibrant presentation. The pumpkin or butternut squash puree offers a bright orange hue, the beetroot puree provides a rich red or magenta layer, and the kale-infused tofu ricotta adds a touch of green. The classic tomato sauce adds a deep red color, and the creamy béchamel brings everything together with a smooth, rich texture. These colors are not just for show; they each bring different health benefits. Orange vegetables like pumpkin are rich in beta-carotene, which supports eye health and immune function.

Health Benefits of Vegan Rainbow Lasagna

This dish is not just visually appealing; it is also a powerhouse of nutrients. Each ingredient has its own set of health benefits, making this lasagna an excellent choice for those seeking a balanced diet. One of the key advantages of this dish is its high fiber content. The abundance of vegetables and wholemeal lasagna sheets ensures that you get a good dose of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health. Additionally, the inclusion of tofu provides a great plant-based source of protein, making this dish filling and satisfying without the need for meat or dairy. This lasagna is also lower in saturated fats compared to traditional lasagna. While conventional versions often rely on cheese and heavy dairy-based sauces, this recipe uses plant-based alternatives that help reduce overall fat content.

Why Choose a Plant-Based Lasagna?

More people are shifting toward plant-based eating for various reasons, including health, environmental sustainability, and ethical considerations. Traditional lasagna is often heavy and rich, leaving diners feeling sluggish. In contrast, this plant-based alternative is lighter and easier to digest, thanks to the abundance of vegetables and fiber-rich ingredients. From an environmental perspective, reducing meat and dairy consumption helps lower greenhouse gas emissions, decreases water usage, and minimizes deforestation. By opting for a vegan lasagna, you contribute to a more sustainable food system while still enjoying a delicious, comforting meal. For those who are lactose intolerant or have dietary restrictions, this recipe is an ideal alternative. The absence of dairy makes it easier on the digestive system, while the variety of flavors ensures that it is just as satisfying as the traditional version.

Customizing Your Rainbow Lasagna

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients based on personal preferences or seasonal availability. If you are not a fan of beets, you can substitute them with red bell peppers for a slightly different flavor while maintaining the vibrant red layer. Likewise, you can swap kale with spinach or Swiss chard to create variations in the green layer. For added texture, consider incorporating mushrooms or zucchini between the layers. If you prefer a bit more crunch, you can add chopped nuts or seeds to the tofu ricotta mixture. The beauty of this dish lies in its adaptability, allowing you to experiment with flavors while still maintaining its colorful and nutritious appeal. Another customization option is adjusting the level of spice or seasoning.

Serving and Storing Vegan Rainbow Lasagna

This lasagna is best served fresh out of the oven, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully. However, it also makes an excellent meal prep option, as it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors tend to deepen over time, making leftovers even more delicious. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven before serving. If you want to make a batch ahead of time, you can also freeze the lasagna. To do so, assemble the layers but do not bake it yet. Wrap it tightly with aluminum foil or an airtight container and freeze it for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake it straight from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

Vegan Rainbow Lasagna is more than just a meal—it is a celebration of color, flavor, and nutrition. With its wholesome ingredients, this dish provides a balanced and satisfying meal that nourishes both the body and the soul. Whether you are hosting a dinner party, meal prepping for the week, or simply looking for a way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet, this lasagna is an excellent choice. Beyond its health benefits, this dish aligns with sustainable and ethical eating practices, making it a great addition to any plant-based lifestyle.