Vegetarian Spaghetti and Lentil Sauce

Savor the comforting flavors of this hearty Vegetarian Spaghetti and Lentil Sauce, a wholesome twist on classic spaghetti bolognese. Packed with tender red lentils, vibrant vegetables like carrots and celery, and aromatic herbs such as oregano and basil, this plant-based dish offers protein, fiber, and a rich tomato base without the need for meat. The sauce simmers to perfection, creating a luscious texture that pairs beautifully with al dente spaghetti. Quick to prepare in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy family dinner. Garnish with optional parmesan and fresh parsley for an irresistible finish. This vegetarian spaghetti recipe is not only delicious but also easy, healthy, and satisfying!

Nutriscore Rating: 78/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:55 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 400 g spaghetti
• 200 g dry red lentils
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced
• 1 medium celery stalk, finely diced
• 400 g canned crushed tomatoes
• 500 ml vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp salt
• 0.5 tsp black pepper
• 50 g parmesan cheese (optional, for topping)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2

While the spaghetti cooks, rinse the red lentils under cold water and set aside.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.

Step 4

Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Step 5

Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are slightly softened.

Step 6

Add the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, rinsed lentils, and tomato paste to the saucepan. Stir to combine.

Step 7

Season the sauce with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper.

Step 8

Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the saucepan and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 9

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Step 10

Serve the lentil sauce over the cooked spaghetti. Optionally, top with grated parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley for garnish.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1992.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2242.9

Total Fat 53.9g	0%
Saturated Fat 15.7g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 4.2g
Cholesterol 40mg	0%
Sodium 5041.9mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 337.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 50.1g	0%
Total Sugars 46.6g
Protein 113.1g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1049.8mg	0%
Iron 31.1mg	0%
Potassium 5652.5mg	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: 21.2%

Protein: 19.8%

Carbs: 59.0%