Save A hearty, comforting twist on classic Bolognese, this fiber-rich lentil sauce is simmered with festive vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a nourishing holiday meal.
This meal has become a holiday favorite in my family due to its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g whole wheat pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne)
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 large onion finely chopped, 2 carrots diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 3 cloves garlic minced, 1 red bell pepper diced, 200 g brown or green lentils rinsed, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 800 g canned crushed tomatoes, 500 ml low-sodium vegetable broth, 1 tsp dried oregano, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, 2 bay leaves, Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar, 1 tbsp maple syrup optional for balance
- Festive Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, 2 tbsp grated vegetarian Parmesan cheese optional, Pomegranate seeds for a festive touch optional
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion carrots celery and bell pepper. Sauté for 8–10 minutes until vegetables are softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add lentils tomato paste oregano thyme rosemary cinnamon nutmeg and bay leaves. Stir well to coat the lentils and vegetables in the spices.
- Step 4:
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 35–40 minutes stirring occasionally until lentils are tender and sauce has thickened.
- Step 5:
- Remove bay leaves. Stir in balsamic vinegar and maple syrup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 6:
- Meanwhile cook whole wheat pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Step 7:
- Toss cooked pasta with lentil Bolognese or serve sauce ladled over pasta.
- Step 8:
- Top with parsley grated Parmesan and pomegranate seeds if desired.
Save Serving this dish sparks joy and wholesome conversations around our holiday table every year.
Notes
For gluten-free use gluten-free pasta. Consider adding chopped mushrooms for extra umami. Pairs well with a medium-bodied red wine such as Chianti.
Allergen Information
Contains gluten from whole wheat pasta and dairy if using Parmesan. Double-check all ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Nutritional Information
Calories 520 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 90 g Protein 21 g per serving.
Save This lentil Bolognese is the perfect holiday comfort food that nourishes the body and soul.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I make the lentils tender in the sauce?
Simmer the lentils uncovered for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften and the sauce thickens.
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta instead of wheat pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta works well as a substitute without affecting the flavor or texture significantly.
- → What spices add warmth to this dish?
Cinnamon, nutmeg, rosemary, thyme, and oregano combine to give a cozy, warm flavor profile.
- → Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Yes, simply omit the vegetarian Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep it vegan-friendly.
- → What is a good wine pairing for this meal?
A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti complements the rich lentil sauce and festive herbs beautifully.
- → How can I add extra umami flavor?
Incorporate chopped mushrooms when sautéing vegetables to enhance the dish’s umami depth.