Spaghetti with Lentil Bolognese

This lentil bolognese recipe is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian twist on a classic Italian dish. Made with protein-rich lentils cooked in a savory tomato sauce loaded with vegetables and herbs, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious. The lentils add a meaty texture and earthy flavor, while the tomatoes, carrots, onions, and garlic create a rich and robust sauce. Serve this lentil bolognese over your favorite pasta or zucchini noodles for a comforting and wholesome meal that is sure to please even the most ardent meat lovers. This recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual dinner party with friends. Enjoy the warm and comforting flavors of this delicious lentil bolognese!

Ingredients:

For the Lentil Bolognese:

• 1 cup dry brown lentils, rinsed

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 carrot, diced

• 1 celery stalk, diced

• 1 bell pepper, diced

• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Spaghetti:

• 8 oz spaghetti (or pasta of your choice)

• Salt, for boiling water

• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook Lentils:

• In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add rinsed lentils and reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess water and set aside.

1. Prepare Lentil Bolognese:

• In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, diced celery, and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until vegetables are softened.

1. Add Crushed Tomatoes and Spices:

• Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

1. Combine Lentils:

• Add cooked lentils to the skillet with the tomato sauce mixture. Stir well to combine, and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

1. Cook Spaghetti:

• In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot.

1. Combine and Serve:

• Add the lentil bolognese sauce to the pot with the cooked spaghetti. Toss well to coat the spaghetti evenly with the sauce.

1. Garnish and Serve:

• Serve the vegan spaghetti with lentil bolognese hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

1. Enjoy!

This vegan spaghetti with lentil bolognese is a hearty and flavorful meal that will satisfy your cravings for a comforting dinner. It's packed with protein and fiber from the lentils, and the rich tomato sauce is full of delicious Italian flavors. Enjoy this wholesome dish with your favorite side salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying vegan dinner.