Lentil Pasta (Recipe)

Are you looking for a delicious and healthy vegetarian meal? Look no further than this easy lentil pasta recipe. With its rich tomato and lentil sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this lentil pasta recipe is a must-try.

Key Takeaways:

• Lentil pasta is a satisfying and comforting vegetarian dish.
• The recipe includes lentils, pasta, onions, carrots, garlic, mushrooms, tamari, balsamic vinegar, marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese, and fresh parsley.
• It can be prepared in around 30 minutes, making it a quick and nutritious option for a homemade meal.
• Pair your lentil pasta with garlic bread, sautéed spinach, or a simple green salad for a complete and flavorful meal.
• This lentil pasta recipe is a healthy choice, packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients.

Lentil Pasta Recipe Ingredients

To make this lentil pasta recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

• Lentils
• Pasta
• Onion
• Carrots
• Garlic
• Cremini mushrooms
• Tamari
• Balsamic vinegar
• Extra-virgin olive oil
• Marinara sauce
• Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley
• Salt
• Pepper

Optional: French green lentils are recommended for this recipe, but you can also use regular green or brown lentils as substitutes. Pappardelle is the recommended pasta shape, but you can also use tagliatelle, fettuccine, or linguine. If you prefer a vegan or gluten-free option, substitute egg-free pasta or your favorite gluten-free pasta. Other essential ingredients include onion, carrots, garlic, cremini mushrooms, tamari, balsamic vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, marinara sauce, Parmesan cheese (or vegan Parmesan), fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have access to French green lentils, you can use other types of lentils such as green or brown lentils as a substitute. As for the pasta, feel free to use your preferred shape. This recipe works well with pappardelle, tagliatelle, fettuccine, or linguine. For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, choose egg-free pasta or gluten-free pasta.

Additional Notes

Remember to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. You can experiment with different herbs, spices, or even add vegetables to customize the dish to your liking.

How to Make Lentil Pasta

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and easy lentil pasta dish using marinara sauce, lentils, and a variety of flavorful ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Gather Your Ingredients

Cook the Pasta

Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Lentil Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

“Sautéing the onion, carrots, and garlic adds a depth of flavor to the dish.”

Add the sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the mushrooms are tender and cooked through.

“The mushrooms add an earthy and savory element to the lentil sauce.”

Next, stir in the tamari, balsamic vinegar, lentils, and marinara sauce. Cook the mixture until the sauce is well combined and heated through.

“The tamari and balsamic vinegar enhance the umami flavors in the lentil sauce.”

Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lentil sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta in the flavorful sauce.

Season and Serve

Season the lentil pasta with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.

What to Serve with Lentil Pasta

This lentil pasta recipe can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various side dishes to create a larger meal. Here are some suggested sides that complement the flavors of the lentil pasta and add extra variety and nutritional value to your meal:

1. Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a classic choice that pairs well with any pasta dish. The warm, buttery bread with a hint of garlic perfectly complements the lentil pasta’s rich tomato sauce.

2. Focaccia

If you prefer a different type of bread, try serving the lentil pasta with focaccia. The herb-infused, olive oil-drenched bread adds a deliciously savory element to your meal.

3. Sautéed Spinach

For a dose of leafy greens, sautéed spinach is a great option. The tender, wilted spinach provides a fresh and vibrant contrast to the heartiness of the lentil pasta.

4. Simple Green Salad

A simple green salad with crisp lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes adds a refreshing crunch to your meal. Drizzle it with your favorite dressing for added flavor.

5. Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

If you’re looking for a more flavorful salad option, try an arugula salad with a zesty lemon vinaigrette. The peppery arugula and tangy dressing complement the lentil pasta beautifully.

6. Sautéed Green Beans

Sautéed green beans make for a nutritious and vibrant side dish. The tender-crisp beans add a burst of freshness to your plate.

7. Steamed Broccoli

Steamed broccoli is a classic vegetable side that complements the lentil pasta’s flavors. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals.

Feel free to mix and match these sides based on your preferences and what ingredients you have on hand. The variety of flavors and textures will enhance your lentil pasta dining experience.

Conclusion

In summary, this lentil pasta recipe is a quick and easy solution for those seeking a delicious and nutritious vegetarian meal. Combining the hearty goodness of lentils, the comforting satisfaction of pasta, and a flavorful rich tomato sauce, this dish offers a well-rounded balance of protein, fiber, and carbohydrates.

Whether you’re looking for a healthy weeknight dinner or a flavorful option to impress guests, this lentil pasta recipe fits the bill. Its simplicity and ease of preparation make it accessible to even the busiest home cooks. By harnessing the natural flavors of the ingredients, this dish delivers homemade taste and nourishment in every bite.

With its versatility, lentil pasta can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with a variety of sides to create a more substantial meal. Its vegetarian-friendly nature also makes it a great choice for those following a plant-based diet or looking to incorporate more meatless options into their meals.

So why not give this easy lentil pasta recipe a try? Indulge in the flavors, revel in the simplicity, and savor the health benefits of this satisfying dish. Whether you’re a seasoned lentil lover or new to the world of lentil pasta, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the deliciousness and goodness it brings to your table.