Save A hearty, comforting twist on classic Bolognese, this fiber-rich lentil sauce is simmered with festive vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a nourishing holiday meal.
I love making this recipe during the holidays because it brings warmth and comfort with healthy ingredients that my whole family enjoys.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g whole wheat pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne)
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 large onion finely chopped, 2 carrots diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 200 g brown or green lentils rinsed, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 800 g canned crushed tomatoes, 500 ml low-sodium vegetable broth, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 2 bay leaves, salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional for balance)
- Festive Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 2 tbsp grated vegetarian Parmesan cheese (optional), pomegranate seeds for a festive touch (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion carrots celery and bell pepper. Sauté for 8 10 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add lentils tomato paste oregano thyme rosemary cinnamon nutmeg and bay leaves. Stir well to coat the lentils and vegetables in the spices.
- Step 4:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 35 40 minutes stirring occasionally until lentils are tender and sauce has thickened.
- Step 5:
- Remove bay leaves. Stir in balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 7:
- Toss cooked pasta with lentil Bolognese or serve sauce ladled over pasta.
- Step 8:
- Top with parsley grated Parmesan and pomegranate seeds if desired.
Save This recipe has created many memorable family dinners especially during the holidays bringing everyone to the table happily.
Nutritional Benefits
Each serving provides 520 calories with 8 g total fat and 21 g protein making it a balanced and nourishing meal.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten from whole wheat pasta and dairy if Parmesan is used. Substitute appropriately for allergy concerns.
Serving Suggestions
Pairs well with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti and a fresh green salad to complement the hearty flavors.
Save This lentil Bolognese is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for cozy gatherings and healthy eating all year round.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use different pasta types?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne work well and provide a hearty texture.
- → How do the spices enhance the flavor?
The combination of oregano, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, and nutmeg adds warmth and depth to the lentil sauce, balancing earthiness and savory notes.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Using gluten-free pasta substitutes makes this a safe and delicious option for gluten-sensitive individuals.
- → What cooking tools are recommended?
A large saucepan, wooden spoon, pasta pot, colander, and sharp knife ensure smooth preparation and cooking.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Omitting the vegetarian Parmesan or using a plant-based alternative keeps the dish fully vegan without sacrificing flavor.
- → What are good beverage pairings?
A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti complements the savory and herbaceous qualities of the dish.