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8 Stellar Reasons for Hearty Lentil Bolognese Pasta

Hearty Lentil Bolognese Pasta
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Make a wonderfully satisfying and protein-rich dinner tonight with this Hearty Lentil Bolognese Pasta. This recipe swaps traditional meat for nutrient-dense lentils, creating a flavorful sauce that clings perfectly to your favorite pasta. It is a comforting meal you will make again and again.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 pound pasta (spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and bay leaf to the pot.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes, or until lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  6. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
  8. Toss the lentil bolognese sauce with the cooked pasta.
  9. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute half the vegetable broth with dry red wine and let it cook down before adding tomatoes.
  • You can add a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end to brighten the flavor profile.
  • This sauce freezes very well for future quick meals.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://savoryskies.com/hearty-lentil-bolognese-pasta-protein-dinner/