Unbelievably Good Lentil Bolognese Pasta Night Meatfree

Unbelievably Good Lentil Bolognese: Pasta Night, Meat Free!

Fancy a comforting bowl of pasta? Craving that rich, satisfying flavour of bolognese but want to skip the meat? I get it! This Lentil Bolognese Recipe is your answer.

Honestly, You won't miss the meat one bit. It's so good, I served it to my mates the other day and even Dave, the ultimate carnivore, was impressed!

What's the Deal with This Vegan Pasta Dinner?

This dish is basically a plant based take on the classic Italian ragu. Instead of beef, we're using humble yet amazing lentils.

It simmers in a rich tomato sauce with loads of yummy veg. Plus, it's super easy to make!

This Plant Based Bolognese is a celebration of simple ingredients. It's rooted in Italian tradition, but with a modern, meat free twist.

It’s an Easy Lentil Pasta Recipe . Prep takes about 20 minutes. Cooking's around 45 minutes. Total time? Just over an hour.

This recipe yields 6 servings. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping!

Why You'll Love This Meatless Bolognese

Lentils are packed with fibre and protein, making this a really healthy and filling meal. It's perfect for a cosy night in, but fancy enough to serve to guests.

The best part? It's dead easy! No fancy skills needed.

This Vegetarian Bolognese Recipe is special because it proves you don't need meat for a flavour explosion. I reckon it's even better than the original! I used to think a "proper" bolognese had to have beef, but this has totally changed my mind.

Speaking of game changers, for the real pro move, you can add dollop of Vegan Honey Mustard Dressing to your plate.

Trust me, you won't regret it.

Time to get cooking!

Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get This Show on the Road!

Alright, buckle up buttercups! We're diving headfirst into the good stuff. This Lentil Bolognese Recipe is so easy, even I can't mess it up (usually!).

We are talking about a top tier Vegan Pasta Dinner , and you won't miss the meat , that's a promise! It is way better than any Veg Burger Recipe !

Main Ingredients: The Building Blocks of Deliciousness

Here's what you'll need, measured with both US and metric because, you know, we're fancy like that!

• Aromatic Base:
  • Olive oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml) . Go for extra virgin if you're feeling boujee.
  • Onion: 1 large, diced (1 ½ cups, 200g) . Get a nice yellow one.
  • Carrots: 2 medium, diced (1 cup, 120g) .
  • Celery: 2 stalks, diced (1 cup, 100g) . Honestly, sometimes I just eyeball this.
  • Garlic: 4 cloves, minced . The fresher, the better.
  • Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon .
  • Dried thyme: ½ teaspoon .
  • Bay leaf: 1 . Don't forget to take it out later!
  • Red pepper flakes: ½ teaspoon (optional) . Only if you are a spice lover.
• Lentil & Tomato Sauce:
  • Brown or green lentils: 1 cup, rinsed (200g) . Make sure you rinse those babies!
  • Crushed tomatoes: 1 (28 ounce) can (794g) . Quality tomatoes = quality sauce.
  • Tomato sauce: 1 (15 ounce) can (425g) .
  • Vegetable broth: 1 cup (240 ml) . Low sodium is always a good shout.
  • Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons .
  • Balsamic vinegar: 1 tablespoon . Trust me on this one!
  • Sugar: 1 teaspoon (optional) . Just a tiny bit to balance things out.
  • Salt and pepper: To taste. Don't be shy!
• Finishing Touches:
  • Pasta: 1 pound (454g) . Spaghetti, penne, whatever floats your boat.
  • Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish. Makes it look all fancy.
  • Vegan parmesan cheese: (optional), for serving.

Seasoning Notes: Flavor City!

The oregano and thyme are essential here. They just scream "Italian Nonna's kitchen" ,and that bay leaf? A game changer. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds a depth of flavour that's just divine! The recipe is great to make a Plant Based Bolognese .

If you are missing an ingredient for your Vegetarian Bolognese Recipe , I’d sub dried marjoram for oregano in a heartbeat.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple, Stupid!

Don't go reaching for every gadget you own. Here's the lowdown:

• A big pot or Dutch oven. Gotta simmer that sauce!
• A colander. For rinsing those lentils.
• A cutting board and a good knife. Safety first, kids!
• Measuring cups and spoons. Unless you're a professional eyeballer!

Honestly, you probably have everything already. Now, let's cook up some magic with this Easy Lentil Pasta Recipe !

Unbelievably Good Lentil Bolognese: Pasta Night, Meat Free!

Honestly, I never thought I'd be raving about a Lentil Bolognese Recipe , but here we are. I made this the other day and You won't miss the meat , I promise! This hearty and flavourful lentil bolognese is a guaranteed crowd pleaser.

It is a plant based version which swaps the beef for nutrient rich lentils and aromatic vegetables, simmered in a rich tomato sauce.

This Vegan Pasta Dinner is perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner.

This Veg Burger Recipe has a similar feel of not using the meat. It's so good that even Uncle Barry, the bloke who thinks ketchup is haute cuisine, will begrudgingly approve of.

It's easier than you think, too.

Prep Steps: The Secret to Quick Cooking

Essential mise en place is key, guys. Dice 1 large onion , 2 carrots , and 2 celery stalks . Mince 4 cloves of garlic .

Rinse 1 cup of lentils . Get everything ready and it cuts your cooking time in half. This simple trick is also great for Veg Burgers Recipe .

Got all your ingredients prepped? Perfect. Now, remember, sharp knives are safer than dull ones! I sliced my finger once trying to cut a carrot with a blunt knife. Not fun!

step-by-step: From Simmer to Supper

Here’s how to make this amazing Meatless Bolognese :

1. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery in 2 tablespoons of olive oil for 8- 10 minutes .
2. Add garlic, 1 teaspoon of oregano , ½ teaspoon of thyme , 1 bay leaf , and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if you like heat!). Cook for 1 minute .
3. Stir in lentils, 1 (28 ounce) can of crushed tomatoes , 1 (15 ounce) can of tomato sauce , 1 cup of vegetable broth , 2 tablespoons of tomato paste , 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar , and 1 teaspoon of sugar . Season with salt and pepper.
4. Simmer for 30- 40 minutes , until lentils are tender.
5. Cook your favorite pasta. Spaghetti or penne work great. Don't forget to reserve a cup of the pasta water!
6. Remove the bay leaf and toss pasta with sauce. Add pasta water if needed.

Pro Tips: Level Up Your Bolognese

Want to take it to the next level? A splash of balsamic vinegar at the end really deepens the flavour.

Don't skip this! Also, don’t be shy with the salt. It brings out all the flavours. You'll make a great Vegan Bolognese .

The biggest mistake? Not letting the sauce simmer long enough. This is key to get that deep flavor. And if you're really organized, you can even make the sauce a day ahead.

The flavours will meld together even more overnight. I sometimes make a big batch of the Easy Lentil Pasta Recipe sauce on Sunday and eat it all week with different things.

If you want to add a nice twist, try a Vegan Honey Mustard Dressing drizzled over the top for a sweet and tangy kick!.

So, there you have it: My go-to lentil bolognese. It's delicious, healthy, and so easy. And honestly, even my meat loving mates can't get enough.

Give it a go, and let me know what you think! You can also search for Veg Burgers Recipe online to try a variety of flavours.

Recipe Notes for Your Amazing Veg Burger Recipe

Okay, so you're about to embark on making this incredible Lentil Bolognese Recipe . Honestly, it's easier than finding a decent parking spot on a Saturday! Here are some little bits and bobs I've learned along the way that should help you make it your own.

Serving Suggestions: Make it Insta Worthy!

Right, so presentation is key, innit? Think rustic Italian chic. A swirl of pasta, a generous dollop of the Plant Based Bolognese , a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a cheeky grating of Vegan parmesan.

Boom! You could even drizzle some of my famous Vegan Honey Mustard Dressing around the plate if you're feeling fancy.

On the side, garlic bread is always a winner, and a simple green salad cuts through the richness nicely. For drinks, a nice glass of Chianti is perfect if you're drinking, or even just a sparkling water will make it all worth it!.

Storage Tips: For Future You

This Vegan Pasta Dinner is even better the next day. Honestly! Just like a good curry. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Fancy batch cooking? The sauce freezes brilliantly. Just portion it out into freezer bags or containers and it'll keep for up to 3 months.

When you're ready to use it, defrost overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the hob. To reheat on the stovetop, simply add a splash of water to the sauce to prevent sticking and cook on medium low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Variations: Get Creative

Want to mix things up? Go wild!. You could add some chopped mushrooms for an earthier flavour. If you are following a Veg Burgers Recipe you can mash some of this goodness for a patty!.

For a gluten-free version, just use gluten-free pasta. Easy peasy! If you like a kick, chuck in some chilli flakes.

Also, if you don't have lentils, try using other substitutes. If you're short on time, use pre-cooked lentils. Honestly, no one will know!.

Nutrition Basics: Feel Good Food

I know it can be a minefield, so here's a simple breakdown. Per serving, you're looking at roughly 450 calories, 20g of protein, 12g of fat, and a hefty 15g of fibre.

What I love about this Meatless Bolognese is that it's packed with goodness. The lentils are a great source of protein and fibre, and the vegetables are loaded with vitamins.

Honestly, this Vegetarian Bolognese Recipe is proper good for you!.

You won't miss the meat , this Easy Lentil Pasta Recipe is hearty, flavourful, and good for the soul. Go on, give it a go! I know you'll love it.

And don't forget to tell me how it turns out. Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of lentils in this bolognese? I only have red lentils on hand.

You can absolutely use different lentils! While brown or green lentils hold their shape best, red lentils will work in a pinch. Just be aware that red lentils tend to break down more during cooking, resulting in a smoother, less textured sauce. It might not have the same "meaty" bite, but will still be delicious!

I'm trying to cut down on salt. Can I reduce the amount in the recipe without sacrificing flavour?

Definitely! You can reduce the salt and still have a flavourful dish. Start by using low-sodium vegetable broth and taste as you go. Don't be shy with the other flavour enhancers like balsamic vinegar, herbs (especially dried oregano and thyme), and even a pinch of red pepper flakes.

These will add depth and complexity, meaning you won't miss the salt as much!

How long does the lentil bolognese last in the fridge, and can I freeze it?

The lentil bolognese will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container. It also freezes beautifully! Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This "You won't miss the meat" dish is great for meal prepping.

I'm gluten-free. What pasta do you recommend, and are there any other adjustments I need to make?

There are tons of great gluten-free pasta options available these days! Look for pasta made from rice, corn, quinoa, or a blend of gluten-free flours. Also, double check that your vegetable broth and any vegan parmesan cheese you might use are also certified gluten-free.

Other than that, the recipe is naturally gluten-free!

My bolognese sauce is a bit too thick. How can I thin it out?

No worries, that's an easy fix! Just add a splash of the reserved pasta water or extra vegetable broth to the sauce while it's simmering. Start with a small amount, like ¼ cup, and add more until you reach your desired consistency. Stir it in well and let it heat through before serving.

Remember, a saucy bolognese is a happy bolognese!

I want to make this even more meaty, even though "You won't miss the meat"! Any tips?

Alright, challenge accepted! For an extra layer of umami and meaty flavour, try adding a tablespoon of marmite or nutritional yeast to the sauce while it simmers. Sautéing some finely chopped mushrooms (like cremini or shiitake) with the other vegetables will also add an earthy depth.

Some people even like to add a splash of red wine during the sautéing process!