Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian Season 4 Episode 9 Low-Lira Lasagna

Ten Dollar Dinners with Melissa d'Arabian is a popular cooking show that revolves around creating affordable yet delicious meals using quality ingredients. In season 4 episode 9, Melissa d'Arabian presents a mouth-watering recipe for Low-Lira Lasagna.

For Melissa, lasagna is the quintessential comfort food that can be customized according to taste and budget. Her recipe for Low-Lira Lasagna follows the traditional Italian flavors but with slight variations that make it both pocket-friendly and nutritious.

To start with, Melissa uses ground turkey instead of beef or pork, which is not only easy on the wallet but also leaner and lower in calories. She also incorporates spinach into the meat sauce, adding a boost of fiber and vitamins. The sauce is seasoned with garlic, oregano, and basil, and simmered to infuse all the flavors.

The next step is to layer the lasagna sheets with the meat sauce, sliced mushrooms, and ricotta cheese. Melissa suggests using no-boil pasta sheets to save time and avoid precooking. She also recommends sprinkling mozzarella cheese on top for a gooey, cheesy finish.

But what sets this lasagna recipe apart is the use of canned tomatoes. Melissa explains that canned tomatoes are actually more economical than fresh ones and often taste better. To enhance the flavor, she purées the tomatoes with a pinch of sugar and red pepper flakes, and pours it over the lasagna.

After assembly, the lasagna is baked in the oven until golden and bubbly. Melissa suggests letting it rest for a few minutes to set before serving. She garnishes it with fresh parsley and basil, which adds a pop of color and freshness.

Throughout the episode, Melissa provides helpful tips and tricks for making the perfect lasagna, such as precooking the spinach to remove excess moisture or using a foil cover to prevent burning. She also emphasizes the importance of seasoning and tasting as you cook, as it can make all the difference in the final dish.

Overall, Low-Lira Lasagna is a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe that combines classic Italian flavors with a frugal twist. Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe is a winner. So, grab a fork and enjoy some comforting lasagna without breaking the bank!