Lentil Pasta

If you’re searching for a wholesome and hearty meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor, look no further than this Lentil Pasta recipe. Packed with protein and fiber from the lentils and a delightful medley of vegetables, this dish is not only nourishing but also incredibly satisfying. Using pappardelle pasta, the broad ribbons cradle the rich marinara sauce and earthy lentils beautifully. This is comfort food at its finest, and it’s perfect for any day of the week.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Lentil Pasta is a reliable recipe because it combines simple ingredients with straightforward cooking techniques. The use of lentils as a protein source makes it a nutritious choice, while the combination of sautéed vegetables and marinara sauce ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. Plus, it’s adaptable! Whether you’re cooking for a family or meal-prepping for the week, this recipe can be scaled up or down easily.

Ingredient Notes

• Pappardelle Pasta: 10 ounces of this wide, flat pasta provides a perfect base for the dish, allowing the sauce and lentils to cling beautifully.
• Extra-Virgin Olive Oil: Use 2 tablespoons for sautéing the vegetables, plus more for drizzling on top for added richness and flavor.
• Yellow Onion: A medium yellow onion, diced, adds a sweet and savory base to the dish.
• Carrot: Finely chopped, a medium carrot provides a hint of sweetness and a lovely pop of color.
• Cremini Mushrooms: 8 ounces of finely chopped mushrooms enhance the umami flavor, making the dish richer.
• Garlic: 3 chopped garlic cloves infuse the dish with aromatic goodness.
• Sea Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Balsamic Vinegar: 1 teaspoon adds a touch of acidity to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Tamari: A gluten-free soy sauce alternative that provides depth and flavor.
• Cooked Green Lentils: 1 cup of cooked lentils (from ½ cup dry) adds protein and texture.
• Marinara Sauce: 24 ounces of your favorite marinara sauce ties everything together with its rich tomato flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese or Vegan Parmesan: For serving, adds creaminess and richness to the finished dish.
• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle for garnish, bringing freshness and color.

Cook’s Kit

• Large Pot: For cooking the pasta until al dente.
• Skillet: A large skillet for sautéing the vegetables.
• Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise ingredient measurements.
• Colander: To drain the pasta once cooked.
• Chef’s Knife: For chopping the vegetables.

Step-by-Step: Lentil Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the 10 ounces of pappardelle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped carrot, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Add Mushrooms and Garlic

Stir in the finely chopped cremini mushrooms and garlic. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the mushrooms are softened and the garlic is fragrant.

Step 4: Season the Mixture

Sprinkle in the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, stirring to combine. Add the balsamic vinegar and tamari, mixing well to incorporate.

Step 5: Stir in Lentils and Marinara Sauce

Add the cooked green lentils and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir to combine, letting the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to meld the flavors.

Step 6: Combine with Pasta

Toss the cooked pappardelle pasta into the skillet, gently mixing to ensure the pasta is well-coated with the lentil and sauce mixture.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Divide the Lentil Pasta among serving plates. Drizzle with additional extra-virgin olive oil, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan, and garnish with fresh parsley.

What to Use Instead

• Pasta: If pappardelle isn’t available, feel free to substitute with fettuccine or any pasta shape you prefer.
• Lentils: Swap green lentils with brown or black lentils based on your preference.
• Mushrooms: If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, diced zucchini or spinach can be great alternatives.
• Parmesan Cheese: Nutritional yeast can be used for a vegan cheesy flavor if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

When preparing this Lentil Pasta, it’s important to note that cooking lentils from scratch can be a time-saving option. If you have leftover lentils from another meal, this is a fantastic way to use them up. Additionally, the flavors of this dish only get better after a day in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for meal prep.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To refrigerate, store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. For freezing, let the Lentil Pasta cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my pasta sticking together?

If your pasta is sticking together, it may not have been stirred enough during the cooking process or it may have been overcooked. Make sure to stir frequently and cook until just al dente.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes into the sautéed vegetables or mixing in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Can I use canned lentils instead of cooking them myself?

Absolutely! Canned lentils are a great time-saver. Just make sure to rinse and drain them well before adding them to the dish.

What if I don’t have marinara sauce?

If marinara sauce isn’t on hand, you can use crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, or even a homemade tomato sauce as a substitute. Just season accordingly to enhance the flavor.

In Closing

If you’re looking for a delicious, filling, and nutritious meal, this Lentil Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish will hit the spot. Enjoy every comforting bite!