Spaghetti with lentil bolognese

Spaghetti with lentil bolognese is a hearty and nutritious vegetarian version of the classic dish. This recipe combines al dente pasta with a rich sauce made from lentils, sautéed vegetables, and cherry tomatoes for a satisfying meal.

17 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 5 min

Ingredients:

12 oz pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion
1 stalk celery
2 garlic cloves
2 cups pasta sauce
1.50 cups cherry tomatoes
1 can canned lentils
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

Spaghetti with lentil bolognese is a hearty and nutritious twist on the classic Italian dish. By replacing the traditional meat with protein-packed lentils, this recipe not only caters to vegetarians but also offers a wholesome meal for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy pasta dish.

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
- Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside.

2. Prepare the Vegetables:
- While the pasta is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the finely chopped onion and celery to the skillet. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Make the Bolognese Sauce:
- Pour in the pasta sauce and stir to combine.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.
- Gently stir in the drained and rinsed lentils.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lentil bolognese sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce.

5. Serve:
- Divide the spaghetti with lentil bolognese among plates.
- Sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese.

6. Optional:
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Voilà! Your Spaghetti with lentil bolognese is ready to be served. This delicious, meat-free version of a classic bolognese offers a nutritious and satisfying meal for everyone. Enjoy it with a sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch of flavor.

Spaghetti with lentil bolognese FAQ:

How long do I need to cook the pasta?

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, usually around 8-12 minutes, until it reaches an al dente texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

How can I store leftovers of this dish?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to moist it.

Can I substitute lentils with another type of protein?

Yes, you can substitute canned lentils with cooked ground meat, tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure all ingredients are properly cooked.

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Any type of pasta can work well, but traditionally, spaghetti is used. You can also use whole wheat, gluten-free, or chickpea pasta for different dietary preferences.

How can I adjust the sauce if it’s too thick?

If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of water or vegetable broth gradually while stirring until the desired consistency is reached. Simmer for a few minutes to combine.

Cooking Tips:

- For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce as it simmers.

- Use high-quality pasta sauce to enhance the overall taste of the dish.

- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrition and texture.

- If you prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be added to the sauce.

- For a vegan version, simply skip the grated parmesan cheese or use a plant-based alternative.

Nutrition Facts

4 Servings
Calories 570kcal
Protein 27g
Carbohydrates 100g
Fiber 15g
Sugar 15g
Fat 13g

Spaghetti with lentil bolognese