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Red Lentil Bolognese Pasta

35 min

Main

This recipe offers a creative spin on the classic bolognese. We've incorporated red lentils, onions, and tomatoes, along with fresh spinach to enhance nutrients, flavor, and visual appeal. To elevate the dish's taste, we've added savory green pesto, resulting in a delightful blend of flavours.

Servings

Total

35 min

Prep

10 min

Cook

25 min

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gluten

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soy

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peanut

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tree nut

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sesame

Ingredients

  • 7.1 oz (200 g)
    dry rigatoni
  • 1 tsp (5 mL)
    vegetable oil
  • 1
    medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp (2 g)
    freshly grated ginger
  • ⅔ cup (136 g)
    dry red lentils, rinsed
  • 2
    medium tomatoes, chopped
  • 1
    carrot, grated
  • 1
    vegetable bouillon cube, crumbled
  • ⅔ cup (160 mL)
    water
  • 1 tsp (1 g)
  • ½ tsp
    garlic powder
  • ½ cup (120 g)
    vegan green pesto
  • 2 cups (60 g)
    fresh baby spinach

Optional toppings

  • hot sauce
  • chili flakes

Directions

  1. Cook the pasta until al dente.
  2. Meanwhile, add the oil and onion to a sauté pan on medium-high heat. Cook until golden, about 4 - 5 minutes. Then add the ginger and cook for 1 more minute.
  3. Then add the lentils, tomatoes, carrot, bouillon, water, spice mix, and garlic powder. Cook, covered, for 15 - 18 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked. Stir often.
  4. Then add the pesto, spinach, and cooked pasta. Cook until the spinach wilts.
  5. Serve while hot, garnish as desired, and enjoy!

Storage

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Plate method

The Plate Method is a visual tool that helps us ensure our dietary needs are on track. Touch the image below to see how this recipe measures up.

Grains & Starches 41%

dry rigatoni

Proteins 16%

dry red lentils

Fruits & Veggies 43%

medium onion

freshly grated ginger

medium tomato

carrot

fresh baby spinach

Calcium
No significant sources of calcium
Fat

vegetable oil

Nutrition info

Focusing on numbers can harm our relationship with food. Instead, our philosophy is to Nourish the Cells & the Soul. For specific nutrition needs due to a medical condition, consult a dietitian or physician. While we strive to provide accurate nutritional information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy. See our disclaimer for details.

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More for the eyes

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Discussion & Rating

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Simone - Oct. 12, 2024, 6:27 p.m.

I chopped the carrots instead if grating them, which added a nice bit of textural variation.
The suggestion of a little bit of chili powder was a fantastic one!


Phoebe - Oct. 7, 2024, 9:58 p.m.

Absolutely loved this creation and I batch made it to share and then freeze some. The addition of pesto really makes it!! Thank you!


rt - Oct. 7, 2024, 12:31 p.m.

Followed Tara's method and added more garlic. We loved it!!


Amy Q - Oct. 7, 2024, 12:36 a.m.

My husband and I devoured this one. “Smells like spaghetti in here!” Will please even the ravenous carnivore in your life.


Trinity - Oct. 6, 2024, 5:39 p.m.

The recipe was so delicious and wholesome


Athina - Oct. 3, 2024, 12:19 p.m.

Yummy! Day 4 of meal prepping is also crowned with absolute success, no surprise there 🙂


Tara - Oct. 2, 2024, 11:02 a.m.

Adding loads of garlic at the start, and it was DEEEEElicious!