I love lasagna, but traditional lasagna can be very heavy. That’s why I made a lighter version: Spinach Lasagna, Topped with Salmon. It’s fresh, colorful, easy to make, and perfect for lunch or a light dinner.
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Cooking the Lasagna Sheets
The first step is to cook the spinach lasagna sheets. Because they are small and delicate, I boil them until just al dente, then rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking. This keeps the sheets soft and easy to layer without breaking. This step is important when making this recipe.
Making the Pesto Cream
While the pasta cools, I make the pesto cream. I mix crème fraîche with green pesto until smooth. It’s creamy but lighter than a traditional cheese sauce. For the tomato layer, I use ready-made tomato sauce, which adds flavor and saves time. These simple layers help make the Spinach Lasagna, Topped with Salmon so fresh and tasty.
Assembling the Lasagna
Layering the lasagna is easy. I start with two sheets of pasta, then add stripes of tomato sauce, some pesto cream, and a handful of arugula. I repeat this two more times until there are three layers of pasta with sauce and greens. The layers make the dish look bright and colorful, just like a restaurant version of this recipe.
Adding the Toppings
The final touch is the toppings. I make little rosettes with smoked salmon, then add cherry tomato pieces, toasted pine nuts, and a few caper berries. These toppings make Spinach Lasagna, Topped with Salmon visually appealing and add a fresh flavor and crunch.
Health Benefits
This recipe is not only super delicious but also healthy. Smoked salmon provides protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart and brain health. Spinach lasagna sheets add iron and fiber, while arugula and cherry tomatoes give vitamins and antioxidants for the immune system. Pine nuts provide healthy fats to keep you full and satisfied. Even the pesto cream adds flavor without heavy cheese.
Conclusion
I love making Spinach Lasagna, Topped with Salmon because it is easy, healthy, and beautiful on the plate. It’s lighter than traditional lasagna but still filling, making it perfect for a weekday lunch or a light dinner.
Spinach Lasagna, Topped with Salmon
2
servings20
minutes8
minutes300
kcalThis fresh layered lasagna combines pre-cooked spinach lasagna sheets with alternating stripes of tomato sauce, creamy pesto sauce, and arugula. It’s topped with smoked salmon rosettes, cherry tomatoes, toasted pine nuts, and caper berries for a colorful and elegant finish. Served cold or at room temperature, it makes a light yet festive dish that works as a main or starter.
Ingredients
12 small Honig spinach lasagna sheets
300 g ready-made tomato sauce
150 ml crème fraîche
3 tbsp green pesto
100 g arugula
180 g smoked salmon, thin slices
8 cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered
3 tbsp pine nuts, toasted
8 caper berries
Directions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the lasagna sheets according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and immediately rinse under cold water to stop cooking. Pat dry gently with a clean kitchen towel.
- Mix the crème fraîche with the pesto until creamy and smooth.
- Place 2 lasagna sheets side by side. Add stripes of tomato sauce and pesto sauce. Scatter some arugula. Repeat twice more with lasagna sheets, sauces, and arugula (so you have 3 layers of pasta total).
- Arrange smoked salmon slices on top, shaping into rosettes if you like. Add cherry tomatoes, sprinkle with toasted pine nuts, and garnish with caper berries.
- Serve cold or at room temperature as a fresh layered dish. For a firmer structure, chill briefly in the fridge before serving.
Notes
- Tag us on Instagram @cherrieswithlove when you make this delectable recipe to share the love and inspire others!
Tips
- A drizzle of olive oil or squeeze of lemon over the salmon just before serving gives extra brightness.
Nutrition Facts
2 servings per container
- Amount Per ServingCalories540
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
29g
45%
- Saturated Fat 9g 45%
- Trans Fat 0g
- Sodium 1300mg 55%
- Total Carbohydrate
44g
15%
- Dietary Fiber 4g 16%
- Sugars 8g
- Protein 32g 64%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Spinach Lasagna, Topped with Salmon
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this lasagna served hot or cold?
This version is meant to be served cold or at room temperature, almost like a layered salad. It’s refreshing and light.
Can I make it warm in the oven?
Yes. Assemble the layers with the sauces and arugula, cover with foil, and bake at 180°C (350°F) for about 20 minutes. Add the smoked salmon, pine nuts, and caper berries only after baking, so the salmon stays delicate.
Can I use a different sauce instead of crème fraîche with pesto?
Yes. You can swap crème fraîche for Greek yogurt, sour cream, or even mascarpone for a richer texture.
As a nutritionist, it’s important to note that while I strive to provide valuable insights, I may not be familiar with all individual health conditions or circumstances. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific needs. Thank you for your understanding.
