Lentil Pasta

Lentil Pasta is one of those dishes that warms your heart and fills your belly. I remember the first time I made it; I was huddled in my kitchen on a chilly evening, seeking comfort food that wouldn’t weigh me down. As I chopped the vibrant vegetables and watched the pasta swirl in the pot, the aroma of sautéing onions and garlic filled the air, transforming my home into a welcoming haven. This dish is packed with flavor, color, and nutrition—perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner with friends.

Shopping List for Lentil Pasta

When it comes to cooking Lentil Pasta, the ingredients are simple yet impactful. Each component plays a vital role in creating the dish’s rich flavor and satisfying texture. The key players include pappardelle pasta, lentils, and a medley of fresh vegetables that add both taste and nutrition. Together, they form a harmonious blend that makes this dish a favorite in my home.

• 10 ounces pappardelle pasta: The star of the dish, providing a hearty base that holds up beautifully against the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: Enhances the flavors and adds richness.
• ½ medium yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth.
• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped: Introduces a subtle sweetness and crunch.
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, stemmed and finely chopped: Provides an earthy flavor that complements the lentils.
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped: Infuses the dish with a robust aroma and flavor.
• ½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
• 1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar: Introduces a tangy depth.
• 1 teaspoon tamari: Provides a rich umami flavor.
• 1½ cups cooked green or French green lentils, from ½ cup dry: The protein-packed ingredient that adds heartiness.
• 24 ounces marinara sauce: Binds everything together with rich tomato flavor.
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan, for serving: Adds a creamy finish.
• Fresh parsley, for garnish: Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.

Cooking Method for Lentil Pasta

Cooking Lentil Pasta is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. The steps are straightforward, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive right into the cooking method so you can enjoy this delicious dish!

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pappardelle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Look for a slight firmness in the texture; this is essential for a perfect bite. After cooking, drain the pasta in a colander and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the sauce.
2. In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and finely chopped carrot, stirring occasionally. You want these to soften nicely, which should take about 5 to 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them; the key is to achieve a tender texture without browning.
3. Next, add the cremini mushrooms and chopped garlic to the skillet. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Continue to cook for another 5 to 8 minutes, stirring regularly, until the mushrooms are tender and have released their moisture into the pan.
4. Now, it’s time to deepen the flavors. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and tamari. The mixture will start to bubble slightly as the vinegar reduces a little. Allow it to cook for about 2 minutes, letting all those flavors meld.
5. Add the cooked lentils and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir well, ensuring that everything is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, heating through and allowing the lentils to absorb the sauce’s flavor.
6. Finally, add the drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, making sure every piece of pasta is coated with the delicious sauce. This is where the magic happens—you’ll see the colors blend beautifully!
7. Portion the Lentil Pasta onto plates and finish with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan if you prefer, along with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that finishing touch.
8. Serve hot and enjoy the harmony of flavors in this comforting dish! Don’t forget to relish the textures—the softness of the lentils and pasta paired with the tender vegetables create an unforgettable experience.

Expert Tips about Lentil Pasta

While cooking Lentil Pasta is straightforward, a few extra tips can elevate your dish to new heights. Here are some expert insights to ensure your pasta is always a hit!

• Storage: Store leftover Lentil Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta and sauce combination for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or some roasted vegetables on the side.
• Spice it Up: If you enjoy heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet when cooking the vegetables.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of lentils or pasta. Each variety offers a unique texture and flavor that can change the dish entirely.

Serve This Lentil Pasta With

• Fresh Salad: A crisp mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the pasta perfectly.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for a comforting meal that feels indulgent.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with seasonal roasted vegetables for a colorful and nutritious addition to your plate.
• Wine Pairing: A light-bodied white wine can enhance the flavors, but remember to keep it simple and elegant.
• Family Dinners: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, offering both flavor and nutrition that everyone will enjoy.

FAQ

Conclusion

Lentil Pasta is special because it brings together nutritious ingredients in a comforting and satisfying way. The combination of lentils and pasta, paired with rich marinara, creates a dish that both nourishes and delights. I encourage you to give it a try and experience how easily it can become a favorite in your household. Enjoy cooking, and happy eating!

Lentil Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, Lentil Pasta combines hearty lentils with rich marinara for a satisfying and nourishing meal. This easy weeknight dinner is perfect for family and friends, promising to delight your taste buds. Make it tonight!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 45 minutes mins

Course Dinner, Pasta

Cuisine Italian

Servings 4 servings

Calories 450 kcal

Equipment

• Skillet
• Large Pot
• Chef's Knife
• Cutting Board
• Wooden Spoon

Ingredients

  

• 10 ounces pappardelle pasta
• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• ½ medium yellow onion
• 1 medium carrot
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms
• 3 cloves garlic
• 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

Instructions

 

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the pappardelle pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
• In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and finely chopped carrot, stirring occasionally. Cook for about 5 to 8 minutes or until softened.
• Add the cremini mushrooms and chopped garlic to the skillet. Season with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for another 5 to 8 minutes, stirring regularly, until the mushrooms are tender.
• Stir in the balsamic vinegar and tamari, letting the mixture bubble slightly. Cook for about 2 minutes.
• Add the cooked lentils and marinara sauce to the skillet. Stir well and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
• Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together gently.
• Portion the Lentil Pasta onto plates and finish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or vegan Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Notes

• Storage: Store leftover Lentil Pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the pasta and sauce combination for up to 2 months.
• Pairing: This dish pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad.
• Spice it Up: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the skillet for extra heat.
• Experiment: Try different types of lentils or pasta to change the dish’s texture and flavor.

Keyword easy weeknight dinner, healthy comfort food, Lentil Pasta Recipe, Vegan Pasta Dishes

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Meet Romina Scott

Welcome to my kitchen. I founded Recipes By Romina with a simple goal: to share the fresh, vibrant, and reliable flavors that I love most. I personally develop and approve every single dish on this site to ensure it is not only delicious but also easy for you to recreate at home. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping dessert, I hope this recipe inspires you to grab an apron and get cooking!