Catholic Recipe: Lasagne (Easy)

Some saints have a lot to do. Take St. Lawrence, for example. He is the patron of cooks and restaurateurs and also a protector of vineyards.

A happy, likable young man, Lawrence lived in the third century, one of the seven deacons of the Church in Rome. When Pope Sixtus was martyred, he left the funds and treasures of the Church in Lawrence's hands. One day the city prefect demanded the "treasures of the Church," and Lawrence promised that at the end of three days he would show him riches exceeding the wealth of the empire. Lawrence gave away his personal possessions to the poor, then assembled all the needy, the infirm, and the religious who lived on alms and bade the prefect look upon the real treasures of the Church. Enraged, the prefect condemned Lawrence to be burned alive over a slow fire. During this torture, the brave saint laughed and jested with his tormentors until at last he died.

In Italy, St. Lawrence is greatly venerated and his feast day celebrated with much color and enthusiasm. In homes and restaurants, cooks outdo themselves. They particularly like to serve a rich lasagne.

DIRECTIONS

Cook noodles according to package directions. Spread layer of noodles on bottom of shallow square or oblong casserole. Top with layer of Lasagne Sauce. Dot with equal amounts of ricotta and mozzarella cheese; sprinkle lightly with Parmesan cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with cheeses. Bake at 350° for about 40 minutes or until cheese has melted. Makes 4 generous servings.