Description
This hearty Lentil Bolognese is a delicious vegan and gluten-free twist on a classic Italian favorite. Made with protein-packed lentils, sautéed vegetables, fire-roasted tomatoes, and your favorite gluten-free pasta, this comforting dish cooks quickly in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 0.75 lb. favorite gluten free pasta
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup white mushrooms, diced
Herbs and Spices
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Pinch of salt and pepper
Tomato and Lentils
- 14 oz fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 24 oz favorite pasta sauce
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 2 cups water (or more as needed)
Oil
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced mushrooms along with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onions and mushrooms are softened and fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce: Add the fire roasted diced tomatoes, pasta sauce, rinsed lentils, and 2 cups of water to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cover the skillet with a lid and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 18-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are fully cooked and the sauce has thickened.
- Serve: Spoon the lentil bolognese sauce over the cooked gluten-free pasta. Optionally, sprinkle with additional red pepper flakes or vegan parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy your nutritious vegan meal!
Notes
- If the sauce becomes too thick during simmering, add a bit more water to maintain your desired consistency.
- You can substitute green or brown lentils depending on availability; both work well in this recipe.
- For non-vegan options, topping with parmesan cheese is recommended.
- Be sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
