Pin this 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.
I enjoy serving this hearty lentil Bolognese during the holidays when everyone appreciates a flavorful and nutritious meal.
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
- 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.
Pin this My family gathers around the table to enjoy this meal every Christmas, making it a cherished tradition.
Notes
For extra umami, add chopped mushrooms. This dish pairs well with a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten from whole wheat pasta and dairy if using Parmesan. Substitute appropriately for gluten-free and dairy-free needs.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 520 calories, 8 g total fat, 90 g carbohydrates, 21 g protein.
Pin this This lentil Bolognese offers a delicious and wholesome holiday meal everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use different pasta types with this sauce?
Yes, whole wheat spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne work well, but gluten-free pasta can be substituted for dietary needs.
- → How do the spices enhance the lentil sauce?
Oregano, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, and nutmeg create a warm, aromatic backdrop that complements the lentils and vegetables for depth and festive flavor.
- → What is the best way to cook lentils for this dish?
Simmer rinsed lentils in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth until tender, about 35–40 minutes, to develop rich flavor and proper texture.
- → Are there options to make this dish vegan?
Yes, omit the vegetarian Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep the dish dairy-free and vegan-friendly.
- → How can I add extra umami to the sauce?
Incorporate chopped mushrooms during the sautéing stage to boost savory depth and richness.
- → What garnishes work best for a festive touch?
Fresh parsley, grated vegetarian Parmesan, and pomegranate seeds add color, texture, and bright notes to finish the dish.