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It goes way back -

Possibly one of the oldest pasta dishes, lasagna originated in Italy during the Middle Ages.

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The oldest text about lasagna -

The oldest transcribed text about lasagna appears in 1282 in the 'Memoriali Bolognesi,' or 'Bolognesi Memorials.' Lasagna was mentioned in a poem transcribed by a Bolognese notary. 

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The first recorded recipe -

However, the first recorded recipe can be found in the 14th century 'Liber de Coquina,' 'The Book of Cookery.'

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The earliest recipe -

In this medieval book, the recipe bore only a slight resemblance to the later traditional form of lasagna. It featured fermented dough, which was flattened into thin sheets, boiled, and sprinkled with cheese and spices. It was then eaten with a small pointed stick.

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The etymology of lasagna -

In Ancient Rome, there was a dish similar to a traditional lasagna called lasana or lasanum, which is Latin for container or pot. 

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A possible Greek origin -

There's also another theory that the word lasagna comes from Greek λάγανον (laganon), which is a flat sheet of pasta dough cut into strips. The word λαγάνα (lagana) is still used in Greek for a flat, thin type of unleavened bread. 

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Lasagne or lasagna? -

As with most other types of pasta, the Italian word is a plural form of lasagne, meaning more than one sheet of lasagna. However, in most languages, a derivative of the singular word is used for the dish. 

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Lasagna across Italy -

When referring to the dish, the north of Italy prefers the plural form lasagne. In the south, the country favors the singular lasagna.

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Variations throughout Italy -

Each region of Italy has its own signature lasagna specialty. In the south, lasagna is generally made with dried sheets of pasta, layered with ragù, ricotta, and mozzarella. In the north, particularly in Bologna, the most popular version of lasagna includes fresh egg pasta, spinach, and layers with ragù, béchamel, and Parmigiano Reggiano.

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Mouthwatering lasagna dishes -

So, now that you've gotten a little crash course on lasagna, keep browsing for some delicious recipes you'll want to try today. 

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Basic lasagna with meaty sauce -

This classic meat lasagna recipe is prepared with a homemade tomato sauce, ground beef, layers of three kinds of cheese, and lasagna sheets.

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Spinach lasagna -

Creamy and cheesy, this spinach lasagna is flavored with a hint of nutmeg and a combination of béchamel and fresh ricotta. 

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Italian sausage lasagna -

Super easy and satisfying for a crowd, this lasagna is made with Italian sausage instead of the usual ground beef.

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Butternut squash lasagna -

The autumnal flavors of sweet roasted butternut squash make this lasagna super comforting and satisfying.

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Artichoke spinach lasagna -

This fabulous lasagna made with an artichoke and spinach mixture is simply pure perfection!

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Red and white sauce lasagna -

The white and red sauce takes the place of ricotta cheese in this rich and flavorful lasagna recipe.

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Zucchini lasagna -

A lighter but still satisfying alternative to the traditional recipe, this cheesy lasagna is easy to make and layered with amazing flavor.

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Keto cauliflower lasagna -

This keto lasagna is incredibly delicious and will fool even the most devoted pasta lovers. The cauliflower is layered with a hearty meat sauce, and, of course, a generous amount of creamy ricotta.

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Seafood lasagna -

Decadent and divine, this seafood lasagna recipe is elegant and ideal for entertaining.

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Pesto lasagna -

Pesto lasagna is a hearty dish with tons of classic Italian flavors. The whole family will love it! 

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Spicy chicken lasagna -

Italian cooking and Mexican cuisine unite in this unique chicken lasagna recipe, which includes green tomatillo salsa, tomato salsa, cilantro, Mexican cheese, spinach, diced tomatoes, and cooked chicken.

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Mushroom lasagna -

A definitive crowd pleaser, this mushroom lasagna recipe is simply elevated. A hot tip is to use different kinds of mushrooms for a rich umami flavor!

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Muffin-tin lasagnas -

This is a super fun way to serve lasagna for potlucks, picnics, or any other fun get-togethers. 

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Pumpkin lasagna -

When you want to go vegetarian for a fall dinner, opt for this delicious pumpkin lasagna. 

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Vegan tofu lasagna -

Made with flavorful tofu ricotta and traditional Italian herbs, it's the perfect plant-based meal.

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Eggplant lasagna -

This tasty, classic lasagna recipe made with roasted eggplant slices is all you need when hunger strikes! 

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Smoked salmon lasagna -

With cheese and layers of smoked salmon and spinach, this seafood lasagna recipe is elegant and ideal for entertaining. 

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Roasted vegetable lasagna -

This vegetarian lasagna recipe is a great way to use up any veggies hanging out in your fridge. Make sure they're roasted to bring out their flavor before getting added to the lasagna. 

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Chicken Alfredo lasagna -

This rich chicken lasagna is a surprising twist on the Italian classic using creamy Alfredo sauce. Definitely something worth celebrating!

Sources: (La Cucina Italiana) (The Spruce Eats) (Taste of Home)

See also: The benefits of home cooking

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