Deliciously Healthy Lentil Bolognese Pasta

Enjoy a hearty and nutritious Lentil Bolognese Pasta. This vegan twist on a classic is packed with flavor and perfect for a satisfying meal.

Lentil Bolognese Pasta is a delicious twist on the classic Italian dish. Instead of meat, it uses hearty lentils, which give the sauce a rich and satisfying texture. The lentils absorb the flavors of tomatoes, garlic, onions, and Italian herbs, creating a robust and savory sauce.

Tossed with your favorite pasta, this dish is perfect for a cozy dinner. It's packed with protein and fiber and a great option for those looking to cut back on meat without sacrificing taste. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or just curious, Lentil Bolognese Pasta is a meal that everyone at the table will love.

Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make! You start by sautéing onions, garlic, and carrots until they’re tender, then add in the lentils, canned tomatoes, and a bit of vegetable broth. Let it simmer until the lentils are cooked through and the flavors have melded together beautifully. Serve it over your favorite pasta—spaghetti, penne, or even zucchini noodles if you’re going for a low-carb option. Top it off with a sprinkle of fresh basil or a little grated vegan cheese, and you have a hearty, satisfying meal that's delicious and good for you. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or reheating for a quick and healthy lunch.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
• Servings Yield: 4 servings

This summary should help you plan and manage your time effectively when making Lentil Bolognese Pasta. Enjoy cooking!

INGREDIENTS

Here's a list of ingredients to make a healthy Lentil Bolognese Pasta that serves 4 people:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
• 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (more if needed)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 12 oz whole grain or gluten-free pasta of choice
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Grated vegan cheese for topping (optional)

These ingredients will combine to create a rich and flavorful lentil bolognese sauce perfect over your favorite pasta.

DIRECTIONS

Here are the step-by-step instructions to make Lentil Bolognese Pasta:

1. Prepare the Lentils:
   • Rinse 1 cup of dried green or brown lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. Cook the Base Vegetables:
   • In a large pot or deep skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
   • Add 1 finely chopped onion, 2 finely chopped carrots, and 2 finely chopped celery stalks. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.
   • Add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomato Components:
   • Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
   • Add 1 can (28 oz) of crushed tomatoes and stir to combine.
4. Incorporate Lentils and Seasonings:
   • Add the rinsed lentils to the pot.
   • Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth.
   • Add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, ½ teaspoon of dried thyme, and ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat).
   • Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer:
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
   • Cover and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if the mixture becomes too thick.
6. Cook the Pasta:
   • While the lentil bolognese is simmering, cook 12 oz of your favorite whole grain or gluten-free pasta according to the package instructions.
   • Drain the cooked pasta and set aside.
7. Combine and Serve:
   • Once the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
   • Serve the lentil bolognese sauce over the cooked pasta.
   • Garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and top with grated vegan cheese for extra flavor.
8. Enjoy:
   • Serve immediately, and enjoy your hearty and healthy Lentil Bolognese Pasta!

This recipe offers a nutritious and flavorful meal that's easy to prepare and perfect for any day of the week.

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