Want to include hearty lentils in your dinner routine more often? Try The Best Lentil Soup, Lentil Dahl, Lentil Salad and my Best Vegan Lasagna, which features hidden lentils in the sauce. Forget everything you know about boring, flavorless pasta sauces; this homemade vegan Lentil Bolognese is so much better! Traditional bolognese is a popular Italian pasta sauce that slow-cooks beef, sofrito vegetables (onion, carrots, and celery), tomatoes, and Italian seasonings over several hours. My bolognese may be quicker than the classic but it doesn’t lack charm or flavor! To make this stick to your ribs sauce, I used high-quality pantry staples like lentils, crushed tomatoes, and dried herbs. This keeps the process easy and budget-friendly, so you can always rely on it for everyday family meals or meal prep. Serve it over bowls of pasta for a meal that everyone can get on board with!
Why I love this lentil bolognese
Simple ingredients, big flavor – Lentils fill this pasta sauce with protein (and fiber) so you stay full for hours. Meanwhile, a handful of vegetables, canned tomatoes, and simple seasonings build on the layers of flavor, making this sauce robust and comforting. Easier than the classic – Not only does my bolognese require fewer ingredients than the classic, but it’s also ready in less than an hour. A meal prep must-have – This recipe makes a ton of sauce, which you can freeze for later and use for quick dinners or your weekly meal prep!
How to make lentil bolognese
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet and sauté the onion for 5 minutes. Add the carrots, garlic, dried spices and salt and cook for 3-4 minutes. Add the tomato paste and cook for about a minute. Pour the wine in (if using) and deglaze the pan, scraping any bits off the bottom. Add the lentils, walnuts and broth. Stir well, bring to a boil then lower heat and simmer for 40 minutes, until the lentils are tender. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and balsamic vinegar. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. Scoop it over bowls of cooked pasta of your choice, then garnish with chopped fresh basil and vegan parmesan. Enjoy! The lentil bolognese is also really good serve with crusty bread, over polenta or even baked potatoes.
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