Take a look at our classic lasagna recipe while you are at it, or leave out the meat with mushroom-based vegetable lasagna. Nothing gets me more inspired to get back in the kitchen than time away from it! I usually take August off for travel and for quality time with my family. Once September rolls around I am itching to start working on new recipes and flavours again. Rest and relaxation are a great re-set for the brain and creativity! And of course, it’s impossible not to get inspired after eating our way through Tuscany! The richness and diversity of Italian cuisine is astounding. While pasta unites the country, there is such a variety of dishes and ingredients, which differs from region to region. I truly don’t believe I can ever get tired of Italian food and that is why a large portion of this website is dedicated to it. Italy is my soul home. It was the reason we moved to Europe from Canada but ended up in the UK! I will never understand twists and turns of life but with age I’ve learned to accept it.
White Lasagna with Chicken
While this recipe is not something I’ve eaten on my travels, the combination of flavours is truly Italian. My family is obsessed with lasagna and over the years, I’ve experimented with many versions. From the classic lasagna alla bolognese to seafood lasagna and eggplant lasagna! I’ve even made a lasagna with lentil bolognese sauce for my vegetarian website! I tried them all and they are all good! Comfort food personified. This time I decided to use chicken sausage meat and a mix of winter greens. I combined spinach and tenderstem broccoli (broccolini) but you can also use cavolo nero (black kale) with rapini (broccoli rabe) if you have access to those. The last two are used heavily in Italy as they add a touch of bitter to a rich dish like lasagna for a nice balance. Rich and creamy béchamel sauce as well as mozzarella cheese are what bring all these flavours together. If you enjoy this chicken lasagna, you’ll want to try my even simpler white chicken skillet lasagna!
Serving suggestions
If you are after a 3 course Italian-style meal, you will want to start with antipasti like crostini or bruschetta. Don’t forget to offer a light salad to balance out a rich lasagna. My personal favourites are Tuscan Panzanella or Warm Zucchini Salad. Finish it off with a dolce course. This recipe for individual Amaretti Tiramisu is easy and extremely delicious!
More Italian dinner ideas to try
Saffron Risotto Easy Chicken Cacciatore Veal Piccata Classic Chicken Parmesan