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Red lentils bolognese

Savor a deliciously rich and satisfying Red Lentil Bolognese! Perfectly hearty, protein-packed, and completely plant-based, this sauce is a healthier take on the classic, pairing beautifully with your favorite pasta or low-calorie konjac noodles.

Tips & Tricks for Perfect Red Lentil Bolognese

  • The Perfect Lentils: Use red lentils for a soft, creamy texture that blends well into the sauce. Rinse thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch.
  • Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar while the sauce simmers to deepen the flavors and bring out the tomato’s natural sweetness.
  • Spice It Up: Season with Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a traditional taste. A pinch of chili flakes adds a gentle heat if you like it spicier.
  • Thick and Rich Sauce: Simmer the sauce on low heat to allow the flavors to meld and the lentils to cook to perfection. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water.
  • Low-Calorie Pairing: For a lighter meal, serve this Bolognese with konjac noodles or spiralized zucchini noodles. For a more traditional option, whole-grain pasta works wonderfully.
  • Make It Creamy: Stir in a dollop of plant-based cream or cashew cream at the end for an extra velvety texture.
  • Batch Cooking: This sauce freezes well, making it ideal for meal prep. Prepare a large batch and store in portioned containers for quick and easy dinners.
  • Topping Ideas: Sprinkle nutritional yeast or vegan Parmesan for a cheesy finish. Fresh basil leaves make for a fragrant and colorful garnish.
Cuisine
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Total Time: 40 mins
Servings 8
Calories 356 kcal per servings
Description

This Red Lentil Bolognese is a hearty, plant-based twist on the classic Italian favorite. Packed with protein-rich red lentils and simmered in a rich tomato sauce infused with aromatic herbs, this dish is a satisfying and nutritious alternative to traditional meat-based Bolognese. Whether you serve it over pasta, zucchini noodles, or konjac noodles for a low-calorie option, this comforting sauce is perfect for anyone seeking a healthy yet indulgent meal.

Ingredients
    Main Ingredients
  • 300 Grams Red lentils
  • 800 Grams Carrots
  • 800 Grams Barilla Basilico Sauce
  • 800 Milliliters Chicken Broth
  • 400 Grams Cherry Tomatoes
  • 1 Piece Onion
  • 1 Teaspoon Garlic
    • Spices
  • 3 Tablespoon Tomato paste
  • Salt
  • Pepper
  • Curry powder
  • Paprika
Instructions
  2. Start by peeling and grating the carrots, dicing the onions, and mincing the garlic. Cut the cherry tomatoes in half to prepare the vegetables.
  3. In a large pan, heat some oil and add the garlic, onions, and tomato paste along with your spices—salt, pepper, curry powder, and paprika. Sauté the mixture until the onions are soft and fragrant.
  4. Once the onion mixture is cooked, add the halved cherry tomatoes to the pan. Mash the tomatoes slightly with a spoon and let them cook for about five minutes, releasing their juices.
  5. Next, stir in the grated carrots and cook them for a few minutes until they start to soften and blend with the tomato mixture.
  6. Add the red lentils to the pan, followed by the chicken broth and Barilla Basilico sauce. Stir everything together well to ensure the lentils are fully submerged in the liquid.
  7. Let the mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency. Serve hot with your favorite pasta or low-calorie noodles!
Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 356kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 7.6g12%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Total Carbohydrate 53.9g18%
Dietary Fiber 11.9g48%
Sugars 15.2g
Protein 17.1g35%

* These values are indicative. The calories may vary depending on the ingredients you buy.