Easy Lentil Bolognese
This Easy Lentil Bolognese is a rich, hearty, plant-based alternative to classic meat sauce, made with tender lentils simmered in a flavorful tomato base. Perfect for a quick, wholesome weeknight dinner, this vegan bolognese is budget-friendly, satisfying, and packed with comforting Italian-inspired flavors.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Olive oil
- Onion, finely chopped
- Carrot, finely chopped
- Celery, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Dried lentils
- Canned crushed tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Vegetable broth
- Italian seasoning
- Bay leaf
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Pasta of choice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan or pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Season with Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and sauce thickens. Add more broth if needed.
- Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions.
- Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning.
- Serve lentil bolognese over cooked pasta.
Notes
Brown or green lentils work best for a hearty, meat-like texture.Add mushrooms for extra depth and a richer flavor.If the sauce thickens too much, loosen it with a splash of broth or water.For meal prep, store sauce separately from pasta for best texture.
Find it online: https://cookibly.com/easy-lentil-bolognese/
