Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish? Our Lentil Meatballs with Burst Tomato Pasta is not only a feast for the eyes but also a wholesome, plant-based meal that will leave you craving more! Imagine succulent lentil meatballs nestled among juicy, bursting cherry tomatoes and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a savory sauce that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe is your ticket to impressing family and friends while enjoying a nutritious meal. Dive into this culinary adventure and discover how easy it is to create a dish that’s as delicious as it is healthy!
Ingredients
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 8 ounces pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the pasta, and cook until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
- While the pasta is cooking, prepare the lentil meatballs. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Form the lentil mixture into small meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter. You should be able to make approximately 12-15 meatballs depending on the size.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the lentil meatballs to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until they are golden brown on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add the cherry tomatoes. Cook them over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they start to burst and release their juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the tomatoes are bursting, return the lentil meatballs to the skillet. Toss them gently with the tomatoes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the mixture seems dry, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to create a sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the lentil meatballs with burst tomato pasta hot, garnished with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian-inspired meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can cook the lentils and prepare the meatball mixture a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook!
- Customize Your Meatballs: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices to the lentil mixture for an extra flavor boost. Fresh basil or parsley can add a lovely touch!
- Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water is key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency. It adds flavor and helps bind the ingredients together.
- Perfectly Cooked Pasta: Make sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly when mixed with the sauce. This will prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Serve with Style: For a restaurant-quality presentation, serve your pasta in bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of good olive oil can elevate the dish even more!
- Make it a Meal: Pair your Lentil Meatballs with a crisp side salad or some garlic bread to round out the meal and impress your guests!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 540kcal
Carbohydrates: 74g
Protein: 23g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 5mg
