Let me tell you, this *Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta* has become a staple in my kitchen! It’s hearty, nutritious, and oh-so-comforting. I remember the first time I made it for my family; we were all busy with our own things, and I needed something quick yet satisfying. The moment that rich, savory aroma filled the house, I knew I had struck gold! Not only is it a hit with my kids (who often turn their noses up at veggies), but it’s also packed with protein and fiber, making it a complete meal. Plus, it’s vegan-friendly, so I can serve it with peace of mind to any guest! Trust me, whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your friends, this recipe has got you covered.

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious *Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta*. I’ve made sure to break everything down so you can grab exactly what you need without any confusion!

1 cup lentils (I usually use brown or green lentils for a nice texture)
2 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought, it all works great!)
1 onion, chopped (dice it up nice and small so it melts into the sauce)
2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic makes all the difference, trust me!)
1 carrot, diced (adds a lovely sweetness to balance the flavors)
1 celery stalk, diced (for that nice, subtle crunch)
1 can crushed tomatoes (14 oz) (get the good stuff, it really enhances the sauce)
2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing all those yummy veggies)
1 tsp dried oregano (a classic herb that pairs perfectly with tomatoes)
1 tsp dried basil (because what’s a bolognese without basil?)
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy, season it well!)
8 oz whole-wheat pasta (choose your favorite shape; I love using fusilli!)

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to a delightful meal that’s sure to impress!

How to Prepare Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta

Now, let’s dive into making this comforting *Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta*! It might sound like a lot, but I promise it’s super straightforward. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, rinse the lentils under cold water and set them aside. This helps to get rid of any dust or impurities.
Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s warm, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Cook everything for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Your kitchen will start smelling amazing!
Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the 2 cups of vegetable broth, the can of crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir it all together, and bring it to a boil.
Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. Give it a stir occasionally, and feel free to adjust the seasoning as it cooks!
While the sauce is simmering, cook the 8 oz of whole-wheat pasta according to the package instructions. Make sure to salt the water for extra flavor!
Once the pasta is al dente and the sauce is thick and hearty, serve the lentil bolognese generously over the pasta. Feel free to top it with nutritional yeast or fresh herbs if you like!

And there you have it! A cozy, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
Nutritious and packed with protein and fiber, thanks to the lentils.
Hearty and filling, leaving you satisfied without feeling heavy.
Vegan-friendly, making it a great option for plant-based diets.
Versatile—feel free to add in your favorite veggies or spices!
Budget-friendly, using simple ingredients that are easy to find.
Leftovers make for a fantastic lunch the next day (if there are any!).
It’s a crowd-pleaser, appealing to both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your *Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta* turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my pro tips that I swear by:

Choose your lentils wisely: I usually go for green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well. Red lentils can get mushy, so save those for soups!
Don’t skip the seasoning: Since lentils can be a bit bland on their own, seasoning is key! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes can really elevate the flavor!
Simmer for flavor: The longer you let the sauce simmer, the more the flavors meld together. If you have extra time, let it simmer for an hour on low heat. Just keep an eye on it and stir occasionally!
Pasta perfection: Make sure to cook the whole-wheat pasta al dente! It’ll continue to cook a little when mixed with the hot sauce, and you want it to have that perfect bite.
Add some freshness: Consider tossing in a handful of fresh spinach or kale right at the end of cooking for extra nutrients and a pop of color. It wilts beautifully!
Garnish for flair: A sprinkle of fresh basil or a dash of nutritional yeast on top before serving not only looks pretty but adds an extra layer of flavor!

With these tips, I guarantee your dish will be a hit! Enjoy making it, and don’t forget to savor every bite.

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the goodness packed into this *Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta*! Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving. Keep in mind these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you choose:

Calories: 350
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 400mg
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 18g
Sugar: 6g

With all that fiber and protein from the lentils, this dish is not only filling but also a fantastic way to nourish your body. Enjoy knowing that you’re treating yourself to something healthy and delicious!

FAQ Section

Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While I love whole-wheat pasta for its nutty flavor and added fiber, you can use any pasta you prefer. Gluten-free pasta works well too, just make sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package.

How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick!

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, definitely! The *Lentil Bolognese* sauce actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge, and it should be good for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave when you’re ready to dig in!

How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the sauce cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 days. Just make sure to reheat thoroughly before serving!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This *Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta* is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch and portion it out into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to eat!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a big batch of this delicious *Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta* and now you’re wondering how to store those tasty leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep it fresh and ready for your next meal.

First, let the lentil bolognese sauce cool down to room temperature. Once it’s cooled, transfer it into an airtight container. If you’ve got any leftover whole-wheat pasta, you can store that separately to prevent it from getting mushy. Just make sure to keep everything sealed tight to maintain freshness! You can store the sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days and the pasta for about the same time.

When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, simply take the sauce and pasta out of the fridge. For reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Just place the sauce in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a little thick, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up. For the pasta, you can also add it to the pan with the sauce for a quick reheat! Alternatively, you can pop it in the microwave, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.

And voilà! You’re all set for round two of this comforting meal without any fuss. Enjoy every bite!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your *Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta* is all set and looking delicious, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it to elevate your meal to the next level! Here are some of my favorite ideas:

Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with a side of warm, crispy garlic bread. It’s perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce and adds a delightful crunch!
Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the bolognese beautifully. Plus, it adds a pop of color to your plate!
Roasted Vegetables: Toss some seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli in olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them until tender. They make a fantastic, flavorful side dish.
Steamed Spinach: A quick sauté or steam of spinach with garlic is not only nutritious but also adds a lovely earthy flavor that pairs wonderfully with the lentil sauce.
Nutritional Yeast or Vegan Parmesan: Sprinkling a bit of nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan on top of your pasta before serving gives it that cheesy flavor without any dairy!
Fresh Basil or Parsley: Add a touch of freshness by garnishing your dish with chopped fresh basil or parsley. It’ll brighten up the flavors and make your plate look gorgeous!

With these sides and garnishes, you’ll have a well-rounded meal that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Enjoy your culinary creation, and don’t forget to share it with loved ones!

Lentil Bolognese over Whole-Wheat Pasta: 7 Comforting Tips

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegan

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Description

A hearty lentil bolognese sauce served over whole-wheat pasta.

Instructions

Rinse the lentils and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until softened.
Add lentils, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
Meanwhile, cook the whole-wheat pasta according to package instructions.
Serve the lentil bolognese over the cooked pasta.

Notes

Adjust seasoning to your taste.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 350
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 58g
Fiber: 12g
Protein: 18g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Lentil Bolognese, Whole-Wheat Pasta, Vegan Pasta

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