Save A rich, satisfying plant-based twist on the classic Italian ragù packed with protein and fiber Perfect for feeding a crowd on a budget
I have made this hearty lentil Bolognese for family dinners and it never fails to impress even the meat lovers
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 2 large onions finely diced, 4 cloves garlic minced, 2 large carrots diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 1 red bell pepper diced
- Lentils & Tomato: 2 cups dried brown or green lentils rinsed, 2 cans (28 oz/800 g each) crushed tomatoes, 1/4 cup tomato paste
- Liquids: 4 cups vegetable broth, 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional or more broth)
- Seasonings: 2 teaspoons dried oregano, 2 teaspoons dried basil, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional), 2 bay leaves, Salt and black pepper to taste
- To Serve: 2 lbs (900 g) spaghetti or pasta of choice (use gluten-free if needed), Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat Add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and bell pepper Sauté for 7&ndash8 minutes until softened
- Step 2:
- Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor
- Step 3:
- Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, red wine (if using), vegetable broth, oregano, basil, thyme, red pepper flakes, and bay leaves Mix well
- Step 4:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low Cover and simmer for 35&ndash40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and sauce has thickened
- Step 5:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste Remove bay leaves
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions Drain
- Step 7:
- Serve lentil Bolognese over pasta Garnish with fresh parsley or basil
Save This recipe brings my family together around the table especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is needed most
Notes
For a richer sauce, stir in 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar at the end For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta
Required Tools
Large pot, Wooden spoon, Chefs knife, Cutting board, Pasta pot
Allergen Information
Contains Wheat (if using regular pasta) Free from Dairy, Eggs, Nuts, Soy (check broth and pasta labels if sensitive)
Save This lentil Bolognese is perfect for meal prep and tastes even better the next day
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use different lentils for this dish?
Brown or green lentils work best as they hold their shape while simmering, providing a satisfying texture.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the pasta with your preferred gluten-free variety.
- → How can I add more depth to the sauce?
Adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar at the end enhances richness and balances the tomato acidity.
- → What vegetables complement the flavors well?
Onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper create a classic aromatic base that melds perfectly with the lentils.
- → Can leftovers be stored and reheated?
Absolutely. This dish freezes well for up to three months and reheats nicely without losing flavor.