Description
A comforting and hearty reinterpretation of classic Bolognese sauce made with lentils, perfect for family gatherings and a healthy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup brown or green lentils
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed or diced tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced (optional)
- 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cool water, removing any debris.
- In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. If using wine, pour that in too.
- Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes covered until lentils are tender.
- If sauce is too thick, add extra broth; if too runny, let it simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed before serving hot over pasta.
Notes
Lentils can vary in cooking time; adjust as necessary for desired texture. Allow the sauce to rest off the heat before serving to enhance flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lentil, bolognese, vegetarian, pasta, healthy, comfort food