Looking for a hearty, nutritious, and incredibly delicious meal? This red lentil spaghetti recipe is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of vegetables, making it a wholesome meal for any day of the week. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!
Why This Recipe?
Red lentil spaghetti is not only flavorful but also a fantastic vegetarian option that’s rich in protein and fiber. The combination of pureed and chopped tomatoes with red lentils creates a thick, savory sauce that perfectly coats the spaghetti. This dish is both satisfying and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
To prepare this incredible red lentil spaghetti, you will need the following ingredients:
- 400 g spaghetti (14 oz)
- 250 g red lentils (8.8 oz)
- 200 g mushrooms (7 oz)
- 1 onion
- 3 carrots
- 1 stick celery
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 500 g pureed tomatoes (18 oz)
- 400 g chopped tomatoes (14 oz)
- 480 ml vegetable stock (2 cups)
- 2 tbsp Italian herbs
- 2 tsp sugar
- Salt
- Pepper
- Olive oil
- Optional: parsley for garnishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the Spaghetti: Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Vegetable Prep
- Dice the Vegetables: Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Slice the mushrooms. Mince the garlic. Prepping all the vegetables beforehand makes the cooking process smoother and quicker.
Cooking Lentils
- Rinse the Lentils: Rinse the red lentils under cold water to remove any debris and excess starch.
Sautéing Vegetables
- Heat the Pan: Heat a large pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic until they are soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
Adding Mushrooms and Lentils
- Add Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan and continue to sauté until they are tender.
- Stir in Lentils: Stir in the red lentils, ensuring they are well mixed with the vegetables.
Adding Tomatoes
- Add Tomato Paste and Tomatoes: Add the tomato paste, pureed tomatoes, and chopped tomatoes to the pan. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Simmering
- Pour in Vegetable Stock: Pour in the vegetable stock and add the Italian herbs and sugar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked and the sauce has thickened.
Combining
- Toss with Spaghetti: Toss the cooked spaghetti with the lentil sauce until well coated.
Serving
- Serve Hot: Serve the spaghetti topped with the lentil sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired for an extra touch of freshness and color.
Tips for Success
- Cook Lentils Properly: Ensure the lentils are fully cooked but not mushy for the best texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor of the dish significantly.
Nutritional Benefits
This red lentil spaghetti is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- High in Protein: Red lentils are a great source of plant-based protein.
- Rich in Fiber: Lentils and vegetables provide a good amount of dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting satiety.
- Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: The vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals to the dish.
This red lentil spaghetti recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a nutritious and delicious meal. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and savor the incredible combination of red lentils and pureed tomatoes!
Additional Recipes to Try
If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out these other delicious options: