Save to Pinterest A rich, satisfying plant-based twist on the classic Italian ragú packed with protein and fiber Perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget
This hearty lentil bolognese has become a favorite in my household for its comforting flavors and healthfulness
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil 2 large onions finely diced 4 cloves garlic minced 2 large carrots diced 2 celery stalks diced 1 red bell pepper diced
- Lentils & Tomato: 2 cups dried brown or green lentils rinsed 2 cans (28 oz/800 g each) crushed tomatoes 1/4 cup tomato paste
- Liquids: 4 cups vegetable broth 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional or more broth)
- Seasonings: 2 teaspoons dried oregano 2 teaspoons dried basil 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) 2 bay leaves Salt and black pepper to taste
- To Serve: 2 lbs (900 g) spaghetti or pasta of choice (use gluten-free if needed) Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat Add onions garlic carrots celery and bell pepper Sauté for 7 8 minutes until softened
- Step 2:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor
- Step 3:
- Add lentils crushed tomatoes red wine (if using) vegetable broth oregano basil thyme red pepper flakes and bay leaves Mix well
- Step 4:
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low Cover and simmer for 35 40 minutes stirring occasionally until lentils are tender and sauce has thickened
- Step 5:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste Remove bay leaves
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile cook pasta according to package instructions Drain
- Step 7:
- Serve lentil Bolognese over pasta Garnish with fresh parsley or basil
Save to Pinterest This recipe created many warm family dinners and is always met with smiles and satisfied appetites
Required Tools
Large pot Wooden spoon Chefs knife Cutting board Pasta pot
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (if using regular pasta) Free from Dairy Eggs Nuts Soy check broth and pasta labels if sensitive Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens
Nutritional Information
Calories 410 Total Fat 5 g Carbohydrates 73 g Protein 17 g
Save to Pinterest This lentil bolognese is perfect for a cozy night in and can easily be doubled for leftovers
Common Recipe Questions
- → What lentils work best for this dish?
Dried brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape well during simmering and absorb flavors nicely.
- → Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, adding dry red wine enriches the flavor, but you can substitute with extra vegetable broth if preferred.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Simply use gluten-free pasta to serve alongside the lentil sauce without compromising taste.
- → Is it possible to add more umami flavor?
Adding diced mushrooms with the vegetables or stirring in balsamic vinegar at the end boosts savory depth.
- → How long does it take to prepare?
Preparation requires about 20 minutes, with a cooking time of 45 minutes for the sauce to fully develop.