Vegetarian Spaghetti and Lentil Sauce ๐
Overview:
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: 436.5
Rating: โญโญโญโญโญ (2 reviews)
Description:
This Vegetarian Spaghetti and Lentil Sauce is not only a quick and easy standby meal but also a favorite among kids. With its savory lentil-based sauce, it’s both nutritious and delicious. A perfect weeknight dinner option that can also be doubled and stored in the freezer for those busy days when time is scarce.
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 | Onion |
| 1 | Garlic clove |
| 4 | Brown lentils |
| 1 1/2 | tsp Salt |
| 1 | tsp Pepper |
| 1 | cup Water |
| 1/2 | tsp Dried basil |
| 1/2 | tsp Dried oregano |
| 900g | Chopped tomatoes |
| 2 | tbsp Tomato paste |
| 1/4 | cup Vinegar |
| 1 | packet Spaghetti |
| Olive oil (for cooking) | |
| Grated cheese (for serving) |
Instructions:
-
Cook Onion and Garlic:
- In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic clove. Cook for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent.
-
Prepare Lentil Sauce:
- Add brown lentils, chili (if using), salt, pepper, and water to the saucepan. Stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for approximately 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
-
Add Flavorful Ingredients:
- Once the lentils are cooked, add vegetable stock, dried basil, dried oregano, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and vinegar to the saucepan. Stir everything together until well combined.
-
Simmer Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer uncovered for about one hour, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken to perfection.
-
Cook Spaghetti:
- While the sauce is simmering, cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
-
Serve and Enjoy:
- To serve, ladle the flavorful lentil sauce over a generous portion of cooked spaghetti. Sprinkle with grated cheese for an extra savory touch. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips:
- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the sauce.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make a double batch of the sauce and freeze it in individual portions for quick and convenient meals later on.
This Vegetarian Spaghetti and Lentil Sauce recipe is not only a lifesaver on busy weeknights but also a wholesome and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your dinner rotation!
