Inspiration in a Bowl of Meat

The last 4 days I have spent recovering on my couch from a minor but necessary surgery.  During those 4 days, my Mom came to visit and help with things around my house.  As part of her visit, she made one of my most favorite and comforting Mom-meals...... Lasagna.  Yum!

I'm not sure if it was the ricotta cheese, turkey meat, or pain killers but.. something about my Mom's lasagna inspired me.  So, I guess this is my way of saying.. stay tuned for a lasagna-inspired dish.

Although I can't give you my Mom's lasagna recipe.. I will, however, provide a few tips to spice up your existing lasagna recipe.

Tip 1:  In the ricotta cheese mixture.. it is typical to have parsley, ricotta, and an egg.  I would suggest adding lemon zest and a couple pinches of nutmeg.  It will give your dish that "hmm-factor".

Tip 2:  In the meat mixture... I would definitely suggest adding a grated or minced clove of garlic - in addition to the meat and tomato sauce.  If you do not have a head of garlic, try garlic or onion powder.

Tip 3:  Switch up the cheese!  The typical lasagna cheese is mozzarella.  If you are up for a burst of flavor and total change from the average pan of lasagna.. then grab some feta or bleu cheese and sprinkle it in with mozzarella.  Both of these cheeses pack a huge punch so it should definitely be used sparingly.

Bowl of meat and sauce.

Pre-baked lasagna

Lasagna ready to eat.

So again.. in a couple days I will post something about my lasagna-inspired idea.  Stay tuned.  Have a great weekend.