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.
This cozy lentil Bolognese quickly became a holiday favorite in our home, bringing warmth and comfort to family dinners.
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. Sat 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 Gathering around this meal always lights up our family holidays with joy and warmth.
Notes
For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta For a vegan version skip Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative Add chopped mushrooms for extra umami Pairs well with a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti
Required Tools
Large saucepan Wooden spoon Pasta pot Colander Chefs knife Cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 520 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 90 g Protein 21 g
Save This delicious lentil Bolognese is the perfect comforting meal to make any day feel special.
Recipe FAQ
- → What type of lentils are best for this dish?
Brown or green lentils work well as they hold their shape during simmering and absorb flavors beautifully.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta instead of whole wheat?
Yes, gluten-free pasta is a suitable alternative that maintains the dish's texture and taste.
- → How can I enhance the umami flavor?
Adding chopped mushrooms or a splash of soy sauce can deepen the savory notes in the sauce.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Omit the vegetarian Parmesan or substitute it with a plant-based cheese to keep it fully vegan.
- → What herbs are used to flavor the sauce?
Oregano, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, nutmeg, and bay leaves combine to create a warm and aromatic profile.
- → Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made in advance and reheated, allowing flavors to develop even more deeply.