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 recipe became a Christmas favorite in our house for its warm flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 350 g whole wheat pasta (spaghetti, rigatoni, or penne)
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 2 tbsp olive oil
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1 large onion, finely chopped
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 2 carrots, diced
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 2 celery stalks, diced
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1 red bell pepper, diced
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 200 g brown or green lentils, rinsed
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 2 tbsp tomato paste
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 800 g canned crushed tomatoes
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 500 ml low-sodium vegetable broth
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1 tsp dried oregano
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1 tsp dried thyme
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 2 bay leaves
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Lentil Bolognese Sauce: 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- Festive Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Festive Garnish: 2 tbsp grated vegetarian Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Festive Garnish: 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 This meal has created cherished moments sharing warmth and health with my family during the holidays.
Notes
For gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. Add 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. For gluten-free and dairy-free versions, use appropriate substitutes. Double-check all ingredient labels if you have a food allergy.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 520, Total Fat 8 g, Carbohydrates 90 g, Protein 21 g.
Save This lentil Bolognese is the perfect hearty dish to bring a healthy touch to your festive meals.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of lentils work best for the sauce?
Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape well and absorb the flavors of the herbs and tomato base during simmering.
- → Can I substitute the whole wheat pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can be used as a substitute without affecting the sauce’s rich flavor and texture.
- → How long should the sauce simmer for optimal taste?
Simmer the lentil sauce uncovered for 35–40 minutes to allow the lentils to soften and the flavors to fully develop.
- → What festive vegetables enhance the sauce?
Carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and onions add sweetness and depth, complementing the herbs and lentils.
- → Are there options to make the dish vegan?
Omit the vegetarian Parmesan or replace it with a plant-based alternative to keep the dish fully vegan.
- → What herbs are used to flavor the sauce?
Dried oregano, thyme, rosemary, along with ground cinnamon and nutmeg, create a warm, aromatic profile ideal for the holidays.