"The Chicken Broccoli Lasagna pairs beautifully with the enlightening novel 'The Vanishing Half' by Brit Bennett. A wholesome meal like this, with its layers of flavors, finds harmony in the equally intricate layers of storytelling in the book. To further enhance the dining experience, a glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc complements both the dish and the insights from the book."
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 2 cups broccoli florets, lightly steamed
- 3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups ricotta cheese
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Cook the Lasagna Noodles: Cook the lasagna noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the White Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Mix the Ricotta Filling: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, eggs, 1 cup of mozzarella, and 1/2 cup of Parmesan. Mix until well combined.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the white sauce on the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Place three lasagna noodles on top of the sauce. Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by half of the chicken and half of the broccoli. Pour a third of the white sauce over the chicken and broccoli, then sprinkle with a third of the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, chicken, broccoli, sauce, and cheese. Top with the final three noodles, the remaining white sauce, and the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake the Lasagna: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the lasagna to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
The Vanishing Half
From The New York Times-bestselling author of 'The Mothers', a stunning new novel about twin sisters, inseparable as children, who ultimately choose to live in two very different worlds, one black and one white. The story spans decades and is a riveting story of family, love, and identity.
The Vignes twin sisters will always be identical. Inseparable as children, they ultimately choose to live in two different worlds, one black and one white. An exploration of the American history of passing.
Discussion Questions
- How does Bennett explore the theme of identity throughout the novel?
- What are the various ways that characters in the book seek to define their own identities?
- In what ways does the novel discuss the idea of 'passing'?
- How do the twins' choices impact their children's lives?
- What role does the setting play in the novel?
- How does the author use the concept of time and memory?
- Discuss the significance of color and race in shaping the characters' lives and choices.
- What do you think the book says about the idea of home and belonging?
- How are gender roles and expectations portrayed in the story?
- How does the novel address the concept of forgiveness among its characters?
Authors:
Brit Bennett
ISBN: 0525536299
Publisher: National Geographic Books
Published Date: 2021-01-12
Crisp Sauvignon Blanc
A glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the creamy richness of Chicken Broccoli Lasagna. Its acidity and citrus notes cut through the cheese and complement the savory elements of the dish.
Ingredients
- Bottle of chilled Sauvignon Blanc
Instructions
- Chill the bottle of Sauvignon Blanc in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Pour into wine glasses and enjoy with Chicken Broccoli Lasagna.