On a chilly evening when you crave something hearty and comforting, this Vegetarian Bolognese recipe is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. Perfect for a cozy night in or for impressing guests with a delicious Italian-inspired dish, this meat-free take on the classic Bolognese sauce is packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. Let’s dive into the recipe and create a mouthwatering dish that will warm both your heart and your stomach.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Vegetarian Bolognese Sauce:**
– Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
– Add the chopped carrots and celery, and cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
– Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
– Pour in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, vegetable broth, and rinsed red lentils. Season with salt and black pepper.
– Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
2. **Cook the Pasta:**
– While the sauce is simmering, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. **Combine the Sauce and Pasta:**
– Once the Vegetarian Bolognese sauce is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
– Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the sauce. Toss everything together gently until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
4. **Serve and Garnish:**
– Divide the Vegetarian Bolognese pasta among serving plates.
– Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
– Serve hot and enjoy a comforting and flavorful meal with your loved ones.
Master this simple yet elegant recipe for Vegetarian Bolognese, and you’ll have a versatile dish that can be enjoyed any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a gathering, this vegetarian twist on a classic Italian dish is likely to become a staple in your recipe collection. So grab a fork and get ready to savor the delicious flavors of this cozy and satisfying meal!
