Save Experience a wholesome take on an Italian classic with this Lentil Bolognese. A hearty, meat-free twist on the traditional pasta sauce, this recipe replaces meat with protein-packed lentils, creating a rich and savory texture that satisfies the whole family. It is the perfect meal for those seeking extra fiber and a nourishing, plant-based dinner.
Save By slowly simmering the base of aromatic vegetables with lentils and crushed tomatoes, the flavors meld together to create a sauce that is just as thick and satisfying as the original. Whether you are a dedicated vegetarian or simply looking to reduce meat consumption, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy authentic Italian flavors.
Ingredients
- Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely diced
- 2 carrots, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Sauce
- 1 ½ cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (28 oz/800 g) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 ½ cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- To Serve
- 12 oz (340 g) spaghetti or preferred pasta
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
- Grated Parmesan or vegan alternative (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 7–8 minutes until softened.
- Step 2
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3
- Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, paprika, and bay leaf. Stir well.
- Step 4
- Pour in the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and sauce is thickened.
- Step 5
- Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6
- While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain.
- Step 7
- Serve the sauce over pasta. Garnish with fresh herbs and cheese if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
This easy recipe requires a preparation time of 15 minutes and a cooking time of 40 minutes, for a total of 55 minutes. To ensure the best results, have your large saucepan, wooden spoon, knife, cutting board, medium pot, and colander ready before you start.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a quicker meal, you can substitute red lentils which cook faster and provide a creamier consistency. To make this dish gluten-free, simply use your favorite gluten-free pasta. For added depth, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a tiny pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this hearty sauce over spaghetti or your preferred pasta shape. Top with fresh chopped basil or parsley and a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan or a vegan alternative. This meal pairs wonderfully with a light Italian red wine like Chianti for a complete rustic dinner experience.
Save Nutritionally, each of the four servings contains approximately 420 calories, 7g of fat, 70g of carbohydrates, and 19g of protein. Enjoy this high-fiber, vegetarian meal that brings the heart of Italy to your kitchen table.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I store leftovers?
Cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months. The sauce actually develops deeper flavor after resting overnight.
- → Can I use canned lentils instead?
Yes, substitute two 15-ounce cans, rinsed and drained. Add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering just to heat through and blend flavors.
- → What pasta shapes work best?
Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine are traditional choices. Short shapes like penne, rigatoni, or fusilli also capture the thick sauce beautifully in their ridges and tubes.
- → How can I make this creamier?
Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream during the final minutes. For a richer finish, add a tablespoon of olive oil or a dollop of dairy-free yogurt just before serving.
- → What can I add for extra flavor?
A splash of balsamic vinegar balances acidity, while a pinch of red pepper flakes adds gentle warmth. Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme during simmering deepen the Italian profile.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. The sauce holds its texture beautifully and actually tastes better after resting. Make a double batch and portion into containers for easy weekday lunches or dinners.