Layers, Layers, Layers

My kids keep saying I'm in denial that biking season is over - hence the reason my bike rack still remains affixed to my trailer hitch. But may I just state, in my defense, that if you dress appropriately in layers, you can prolong your riding season!

Admittedly, I did experience some toe-numbing rides, but one little accessory changed all of that. Thanks to my friend, George (Ironman Finisher and Youth Group Leader extraordinaire), I have been able to keep my pedals moving. He bought me these great little booties that slip over my bike shoes and my toes are now snug and warm as I pedal my way to mountain bike happiness. Thanks again, George!

In keeping with the layer theme, I am leaving you with my favourite lasagna recipe. Stay posted for an update as to when I'll cave and remove, albeit dismally, my bike rack from my truck.

Tracey's Favourite Lasagna
I hate messing around with lasagna noodles; boiling and working with them. They're such slimy little suckers! So do yourselves a favour and grab fresh lasagna sheets - so much easier to work with!


photo courtesy of ninazer0 on flickr

1# ground beef
1 small onion, diced
1 28-oz. can tomatoes
1 12-oz. can tomato paste
1 Tbsp. sugar
1 tsp. salt
1/2 tsp. oregano leaves
1/2 tsp. thyme leaves
1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper
1/4 tsp. garlic salt
1 package mild italian sausage (about 6 sausages)
Fresh Whole Wheat Lasagna sheets (found in the deli section)
1 15-16 oz. container lite Ricotta cheese
2 eggs
1 16-oz mozzarella cheese, grated
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

Prepare meat sauce: In saucepan over high heat, cook ground beef and onion, stirring frequently - until all pan juices evaporate and beef is well browned. Add tomatoes with their liquid and next 7 ingredients. Heat to boiling. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for thirty minutes. Stir occassionally. Skim fat.

Meanwhile, place skillet on medium-high heat and bring 2" of water to boil (about 1 - 1.5 cups). Add italian sausage and cook until no longer pink inside. Add more water if needed. Cool, slice each link into rounds about 1/4" think and set aside.

Mix ricotta cheese with eggs. Set aside.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. In 13" x 9" baking dish, arrange half of noodles. Top with half of ricotta mixture. Sprinkle with half of mozzarella. Top with half of sauce. Then add sausage as your next layer. Repeat all layers. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.

Bake lasagna for 1 hour or until heated through. Top broil if desired. Remove from oven. Let stand 10 minutes.