Are you ready to indulge in a hearty, mouthwatering dish that’s not just kind to your taste buds but also to the planet? This Vegan Bolognese Spaghetti is a game-changer that will have even the most devoted meat-lovers asking for seconds! Packed with protein-rich lentils and vibrant veggies, this Italian classic is not only easy to make but also ready in just 40 minutes. Dive into this delightful recipe that promises to transform your weeknight dinners into a culinary celebration, and discover how simple ingredients can create a symphony of flavors. Your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package spaghetti
- 1 cup lentils, cooked
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all ingredients. Rinse the lentils and ensure they are cooked beforehand. If using dried lentils, cook them according to package instructions until tender but not mushy.
- Heat a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil and sauté the chopped onions until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and diced carrots to the pan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the cooked lentils to the skillet. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Season the sauce with dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop rich flavors.
- While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the spaghetti and return it to the pot. If desired, toss with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Plate the spaghetti and generously ladle the lentil bolognese sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if using.
- Serve immediately while hot, optionally with additional nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for extra flavor.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can cook the lentils in advance and store them in the fridge. This way, you can whip up this delicious meal in under 30 minutes on a busy night!
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor. The more, the merrier!
- Simmer for Flavor: Don’t rush the simmering process! Allowing the sauce to cook for the full 20-25 minutes will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Perfect Pasta: Make sure to salt your boiling water generously before adding the spaghetti. This step enhances the pasta’s flavor and ensures a delicious base for your sauce.
- Garnish for Appeal: A sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of nutritional yeast on top just before serving can elevate the dish's presentation and taste.
- Leftover Magic: This Vegan Bolognese sauce stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen for longer storage. Perfect for meal prep!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
