Lentil bolognese –Welcome to the most epic culinary adventure where we transform humble lentils into a dazzling Lentil Bolognese with Pappardelle Pasta! It’s the dish that has all the makings of a classic while ensuring you’re keeping things plant-based and delicious. Strap in and put on your chef hat; we’re diving into a pot of flavor!
Lentil Bolognese with Pappardelle Pasta
Let’s get this pasta party started! Here’s a visualization of our star dish, ready to steal the show from its beefy counterparts. Just look at how inviting it is!
Now that we’ve whetted your appetite, let’s gather our cast of ingredients. This isn’t just any bolognese; it’s loaded with nutrients and flavor! Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 12 oz pappardelle pasta
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Feeling prepped? Good! Let’s get cooking:
Instructions:
- Start by cooking the pappardelle pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside but make sure to reserve a cup of that starchy pasta water—don’t waste it!
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (around 1 minute—just wait for that garlicky goodness!).
- Throw in the lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Mix it all up and then add 3 cups of water.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add reserved pasta water if things get too thick.
- Once the lentils are perfect, season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss the cooked pappardelle into the bolognese, combining everything beautifully!
- Serve the masterpiece in bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
And voilà! You’re the proud culinary genius behind this Lentil Bolognese with Pappardelle. It’s hearty, satisfying, and undeniably delicious. Now, dig in and let those flavors dance in your mouth!