Contents
Introduction
Lentil pasta is a delightful and hearty dish that combines rich flavors with nutritious ingredients. This recipe from Love and Lemons highlights pappardelle pasta paired with a savory lentil and mushroom sauce, making it a perfect meal for pasta lovers and health enthusiasts alike. Not only is it packed with protein and fiber, but it also offers a deliciously satisfying vegetarian option.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
10 ounces pappardelle pasta
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling
½ medium yellow onion, diced
1 medium carrot, finely chopped
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, chopped
½ teaspoon sea salt
Freshly ground black pepper
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon tamari
1½ cups cooked green or French green lentils (from ½ cup dry)
24 ounces marinara sauce
½ cup Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan, for serving
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
25 minutes
Total Time
40 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Follow this recipe to create a comforting bowl of lentil pasta that can be enjoyed by everyone. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a favorite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pappardelle pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped carrot, cooking for 5 to 8 minutes until softened.
Add Mushrooms and Garlic
Stir in the chopped cremini mushrooms, garlic, sea salt, and several grinds of black pepper. Continue cooking for another 5 to 8 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.
Incorporate Flavorings
Add the balsamic vinegar and tamari to the skillet, stirring to combine.
Add Lentils and Marinara
Stir in the cooked lentils and marinara sauce. Cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring the sauce is well combined and heated through.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce.
Serve
Portion the pasta onto plates and garnish with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Notes
Cooking Lentils
To prepare 1½ cups of cooked green or French green lentils, start with ½ cup of dry lentils, rinsing and cooking them in a pot with water or broth until tender, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes.
Vegan Option
For a vegan version, use vegan Parmesan cheese instead of regular Parmesan.
Fresh Herbs
Feel free to use other fresh herbs like basil or oregano in addition to parsley for extra flavor.
Cook techniques
Cooking Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil to ensure the pasta is seasoned as it cooks. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, aiming for al dente for the best texture. Draining and tossing with olive oil helps prevent sticking.
Sautéing Vegetables
Use medium heat to sauté the onion and carrot until softened, which typically takes 5 to 8 minutes. This method enhances flavor and creates a base for the dish.
Adding Mushrooms and Garlic
Incorporate mushrooms and garlic after the onions and carrots are ready. Cook them until tender, allowing their flavors to meld, roughly 5 to 8 minutes.
Incorporating Flavorings
Add balsamic vinegar and tamari once the mushrooms soften. This introduces depth and complexity to the dish.
Combining Ingredients
Stir in cooked lentils and marinara sauce, ensuring everything is heated through while maintaining an even consistency in flavor.
Tossing Pasta with Sauce
Once everything is ready, add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly. This ensures each piece of pasta is flavorful and well-integrated with the sauce.
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute pappardelle with other pasta shapes like fettuccine or even gluten-free pasta.
How do I store leftover Lentil Pasta?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, simply replace Parmesan cheese with vegan Parmesan to make it vegan-friendly.
Can I use canned lentils instead of cooked dry ones?
Yes, canned lentils are a great time-saver. Just drain and rinse them before adding to the dish.
What can I serve with Lentil Pasta?
A fresh salad or garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment to this hearty dish.
Conclusion
This Lentil Pasta recipe is a hearty blend of flavors and textures, showcasing the versatility of pappardelle and the nutritional benefits of lentils. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, it makes for a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Vegetable Variations
Consider adding spinach or kale for extra greens, or incorporate bell peppers for a pop of color and sweetness.
Protein Boost
For added protein, mix in cooked chicken or turkey. Alternatively, crumbled tofu or tempeh can complement the flavors beautifully.
Spicy Twist
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick that elevates the dish.
Herb Infusion
Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, basil, or oregano to customize the flavor profile of the sauce.
Cheese Alternatives
Try using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a vegan-friendly option that adds a cheesy flavor without dairy.
Side Dish Pairing
Serve with a crisp mixed green salad or garlic bread to round out the meal and provide additional textures.
