September 18, 2024 25 Comments
This lentil pasta sauce is a game-changer. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also budget-friendly and versatile enough to be served with a variety of dishes.
Why opt for lentils over ground beef? Lentils are not only cost-effective but also packed with flavor. The essence of a tomato sauce lies in tomatoes, making meat optional (though indulgent). Embracing lentils is not just beneficial for your wallet but also for the environment – a win-win situation!
My daughter’s decision to go vegetarian inspired me to create meatless versions of our family favorites. This lentil pasta sauce has become a preferred choice over traditional Bolognese for its lighter texture that doesn’t weigh me down.
What’s great about this sauce is its simplicity and versatility – you can even freeze it! Whether it’s paired with pasta, eggs, or toast, this sauce never fails to impress. And for Weight Watchers enthusiasts, rejoice! This recipe scores a zero on the points system, thanks to lentils being a free food on the program.
In addition to this pasta sauce, I’ve successfully dabbled in lentil tacos and mushroom lentil burgers, expanding my culinary repertoire.
Unlike most beans, lentils cook quickly in about 15-20 minutes, aligning perfectly with the preparation of this sauce. You can effortlessly meld the flavors as you cook the lentils and incorporate them into the sauce when they’re ready.
I personally adore lentils in a dish called dal – a curry that pairs wonderfully with rice and leaves you completely content. It’s a dish I usually order at restaurants, but there’s no reason why I shouldn’t be making it at home!
Lentil Tacos
Lentil tacos are a meatless twist on Taco Tuesday that proves you don’t need ground beef to enjoy the flavors of a classic taco.
Mushroom Lentil Burgers
Mushroom lentil burgers offer a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, packed with flavor and nutrition.
Lentil Pasta Sauce Recipe
Makes 10 cups
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Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1-28 ounce can crushed tomatoes
1-28 ounce can fire roasted tomatoes
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
2 bay leaves
1 cup dry lentils
Instructions
Heat oil over medium-high heat in a large saucepan. Saute onion and garlic until translucent, about four minutes. Add crushed tomatoes, fire-roasted tomatoes, parsley, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil and simmer for 30 minutes.
While the sauce is cooking, add lentils to a medium saucepan with 3 cups of water. Bring to a boil, cover, and simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes until lentils are tender, then drain.
Once the sauce is done cooking, mix in the cooked lentils and serve. Enjoy over pasta, roasted vegetables, or toast.
Nutrition Facts
For one cup = 127 calories, 2 g fat, 0.3 g saturated fat, 20.6 g carbohydrates, 6.1 g sugar, 7.3 g protein, 9.1 g fiber, 221 mg sodium, 0 Freestyle Pts
Points values are calculated by Snack Girl and are provided for information only. See all Snack Girl Recipes
