Lentil Bolognese for Pasta

Transform your pasta night with this hearty and wholesome Lentil Bolognese, a plant-based twist on the classic Italian favorite. Bursting with rich, savory flavors, this sauce combines tender green or brown lentils with a medley of sautéed vegetables, crushed tomatoes, and warm spices like smoked paprika and Italian seasoning. Slow-simmered to perfection, this lentil-packed recipe delivers a protein- and fiber-rich option that's both satisfying and nutritious. Serve it over your favorite pasta and top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for an irresistible vegan dinner the whole family will love. Whether you're embracing Meatless Mondays or simply seeking a comforting, health-conscious meal, this easy Lentil Bolognese is sure to become a go-to dish.

Nutriscore Rating: 77/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium-sized yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 medium-sized carrots, finely diced
• 2 stalks celery stalks, finely diced
• 4 cloves garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 0.5 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 leaf bay leaf
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for serving)
• 12 ounces cooked pasta of choice

Directions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat.

Step 2

Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

Step 4

Add the rinsed lentils to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.

Step 5

Pour in the vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato paste. Add the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), sea salt, black pepper, and bay leaf.

Step 6

Stir everything well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a splash of water or additional broth if the sauce becomes too thick.

Step 7

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper to your preference.

Step 8

Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 9

Serve the Lentil Bolognese over cooked pasta, and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2800.9g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1691.0

Total Fat 41.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 6.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4511.7mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 277.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 56.6g	0%
Total Sugars 62.8g
Protein 65.4g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 596.9mg	0%
Iron 22.8mg	0%
Potassium 5947.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 21.5%

Protein: 15.0%

Carbs: 63.5%