Save A hearty, rich, and comforting one-pot meal featuring lentils simmered in a robust tomato sauce with vegetables and herbs—delivering all the meaty satisfaction of a classic Bolognese, entirely plant-based.
This recipe is perfect for cozy dinners and has become a family favorite for its simplicity and taste.
Ingredients
- Lentils & Protein: 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed, 3 cups vegetable broth
- Vegetables: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 medium onion, finely diced, 2 carrots, finely diced, 2 celery stalks, finely diced, 3 cloves garlic, minced, 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional), 8 oz (225 g) mushrooms, finely chopped
- Tomato Base: 1 (28 oz / 800 g) can crushed tomatoes, 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Seasonings & Herbs: 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional), 1 bay leaf, Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- To Serve: 12 oz (340 g) pasta of choice (spaghetti, penne, or gluten-free), Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional)
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Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Add garlic, mushrooms, and bell pepper (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their moisture.
- Step 3:
- Stir in tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Add lentils, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and bay leaf. Stir to combine.
- Step 5:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and sauce has thickened.
- Step 6:
- While the sauce simmers, cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 7:
- Remove bay leaf from sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 8:
- Serve sauce over pasta. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.
Save This meal has brought our family together on many weeknights for a warm and satisfying dinner.
Required Tools
Large pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board, saucepan (for pasta)
Allergen Information
Contains: Wheat (if not using gluten-free pasta). Free from: Dairy, Eggs, Nuts, Soy (unless optional soy sauce is used). Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 225, Total Fat: 5 g, Carbohydrates: 35 g, Protein: 12 g (per serving, without pasta)
Save This plant-based bolognese is a delicious way to enjoy classic comfort food with a healthy twist.
Recipe Questions
- → What type of lentils should I use?
Brown or green lentils work best for this dish since they hold their shape well and provide a hearty texture.
- → Can I make this in one pot?
Yes, the sauce is simmered in one pot, though pasta is cooked separately for best results.
- → What herbs enhance the sauce flavor?
Oregano, basil, thyme, and smoked paprika provide rich, layered flavors that complement the tomato base.
- → How can I increase protein content?
Adding cooked lentils or plant-based ground meat boosts the protein and hearty texture.
- → Is this suitable for gluten-free diets?
Using gluten-free pasta options makes this dish gluten-free without altering its flavor.
