Save to Pinterest 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.
This recipe has become my go-to for cozy holiday dinners that satisfy both comfort and nutrition needs.
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 to Pinterest This dish always brings the family together, sparking conversation and comfort on chilly holiday nights.
Notes
Pair with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti and consider adding chopped mushrooms for extra umami.
Required Tools
Large saucepan, wooden spoon, pasta pot, colander, chefs knife, cutting board
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 520, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 90 g, Protein 21 g
Save to Pinterest This lentil Bolognese balances hearty flavors and nutrition perfectly for a festive meal.
Questions & Answers
- → How do I ensure the lentils cook evenly?
Rinse lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove debris. Simmer uncovered while stirring occasionally until tender, about 35-40 minutes.
- → Can I substitute the herbs used in this sauce?
Yes, oregano, thyme, and rosemary create a classic flavor, but you can adjust based on preference or availability without losing the sauce’s depth.
- → What pasta types work best with this sauce?
Whole wheat pasta like spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne complements the thick lentil sauce well, holding flavors and texture nicely.
- → How can I make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Simply swap whole wheat pasta for gluten-free pasta alternatives to keep the meal safe for gluten-sensitive guests.
- → Are there flavorful additions to enhance the sauce?
Adding chopped mushrooms brings extra umami, while garnishes like parsley and pomegranate seeds add freshness and a festive appearance.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti complements the hearty, herb-infused lentil sauce beautifully.