Skinny Veggie Lasagna

I have received several Facebook messages along with texts about the recipe I cooked last night for dinner. It's super easy and delicious - trust me I asked my husband like five times if he liked it just to be sure! I am a huge pasta fan but when it comes to lasagna it's a different story. Say what? Yes, it's true. I hate Ricotta cheese...the texture really freaks me out and makes me feel all queasy inside. But, last night I overcame my fear and decided to give the whole lasagna thing a try. The best thing about this Veggie Lasagna recipe is the fact that it's all made in the crockpot. Fix it on your lunch break and it's ready to eat by the time you arrive home from your long, stressful day at work. 

Ingredients:

• (2) 24 ounce jars or cans of Italian tomato sauce (I used this)
• 9 thick lasagna noodles with wavy edges (I used this)
• 24 ounces part-skim ricotta cheese or cottage cheese (I used whatever name brand they had but target brand will do)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese (I used this)
• 3-4 cups chopped vegetables of choice (I used this)
• Parmesan cheese for topping (I used this)

Instructions:

1. If you do not have crockpot liners, then spray the bottom and sides with nonstick cooking spray. Spread 1/2 cup tomato sauce on the bottom so that the noodles don't stick
2. Break noodles so that they fit and mostly cover the bottom. They will more than likely look a little awkward - not a big deal. Cover with about one third of the ricotta, veggies, sauce, mozzarella, and end with noodles. Repeat layers two to three more time (depending on how deep your crockpot is) End with a layer of noodles on top, covered with a thin layer of sauce and mozzarella. The prep time took me about 20 minutes.
3. Cover and cook on high for 3 hours or on low for 5-6 hours. I cooked it right at 5 and it was perfect. Turn the crockpot off completely and let the lasagna sit for 45 minute to an hour. This allows all the moisture to get soaked into the lasagna, and if you don't do this it will probably be more like lasagna soup. Depending on how long you let it sit, you can either scoop pieces out or just cut with a knife like you would with normal lasagna.

Healthy lunch for the week – check. 

DIY : Gel Nail

I am a huge fan of gel nails, unfortunately that $40 habit isn't exactly the best habit to have while we are on a newlywed budget. Instead, I have done my fair share of research in order to find a more affordable way to get that gel nail look! And plus, I get tired of colors after two weeks so this way I can change the polish out anytime I want. Double win! Anyway, here is what you need:

1.  Gelous Advanced Nail Gel Polish is from Sally's. It's under $6 and does not require a special light! This is not exactly like Shellac, but it does make the polish look thicker, last longer and provides great shine! To remove it, all you have to use is acetone!
2. Your choice of nail polish - since it's officially Fall my transition color that I love to wear every year is You Don't Know Me Jacques OPI. This color can be found pretty much anywhere that sells OPI.
3. Out the Door Top Coat  is also available at Sally's. I have to say I am the kind of person that is very loyal to products that I love but I gave this a try and it's awesome! Your nails will dry in an instant and will be super shiny! The topcoat that I've been using for years is Seche Vite Top Coat. - It's wonderful.
4. A nail file of your choice. I like the Star Nail Mini Orange Sanding Block. The size is perfect to keep in your handbag and/or car.

Now, that you have all of your supplies here's how to get your gel mani:

• Remove all nail polish and use a file to smooth down ALL over your nail
• Wash your hands to remove any remaining oil, dirt, etc.
• Apply a thin layer of the Gelous Advanced Nail Gel. Allow a few minutes to let it get semi-dry
• Repeat that - another layer of Gelous and allow it to set...
• Then, use your choice of nail polish and give it 4 or so minutes to let it set...
• Add yet another layer of the Gelous Advanced Nail Gel. Allow it to semi-dry
• Add another layer of your nail polish
• Apply the On The Go Top Coat...
• There you have it, your DIY Gel Nail

So if you don't have the patience for all of this just leave out the last coat of Gelous Polish. Your nail won't be as thick but it will still look really nice! Enjoy!