Southern charm on a plate: chef jj’s collard green lasagna recipe for foodies

Chef JJ’s collard green lasagna recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the classic flavors of lasagna with the unique and nutritious benefits of collard greens. This innovative dish is sure to impress your family and friends, and it’s a great way to add some extra vegetables to your diet.

Ingredients:

For the Collard Greens:

• 2 bunches collard greens, washed and chopped
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Béchamel Sauce:

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups milk
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Lasagna:

• 12 lasagna noodles
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 pound Italian sausage
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Collard Greens: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened. Add the collard greens, salt, and pepper and cook until wilted.
2. Make the Béchamel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
3. Brown the Meat: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
4. Make the Lasagna Sauce: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet with the meat and cook until softened. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes.
5. Assemble the Lasagna: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread 1 cup of the béchamel sauce in the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with 6 lasagna noodles. Spread with the collard greens, then the meat sauce, and then the remaining béchamel sauce. Repeat layers. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Variations:

• Use spinach or kale instead of collard greens.
• Add chopped mushrooms or zucchini to the meat sauce.
• Use a different type of cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan.

Tips:

• For the best flavor, use fresh collard greens.
• If you don’t have time to make your own béchamel sauce, you can use a jarred Alfredo sauce instead.
• Let the lasagna rest for a few minutes before serving so that it can set up.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side salad and garlic bread.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt.
• Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.

Nutritional Benefits:

Collard greens are a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and calcium. They are also low in calories and fat. This lasagna is a delicious and nutritious meal that can help you stay healthy.

The Secret to Chef JJ’s Collard Green Lasagna

The secret to Chef JJ’s collard green lasagna is in the combination of flavors and textures. The collard greens add a unique and slightly bitter flavor that balances out the richness of the meat sauce and the creaminess of the béchamel sauce. The lasagna noodles provide a chewy texture that contrasts with the softness of the collard greens.

Chef JJ’s Culinary Journey

Chef JJ is a renowned chef who has been featured in numerous publications and television shows. He is known for his innovative and flavorful dishes that often incorporate fresh, local ingredients. Chef JJ’s collard green lasagna is a testament to his creativity and his passion for creating delicious and healthy meals.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Can I make this lasagna ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this lasagna up to 3 days ahead of time. Simply assemble the lasagna and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, bake it as directed.
Q: Can I freeze this lasagna?
A: Yes, you can freeze this lasagna for up to 2 months. Simply assemble the lasagna and freeze it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the lasagna overnight in the refrigerator and then bake it as directed.
Q: What can I do with leftover lasagna?
A: Leftover lasagna can be reheated in the microwave or oven. You can also use leftover lasagna to make a breakfast casserole or a soup.