Description
This Lentil Pasta is a hearty, one-pot meal inspired by the traditional Italian “pasta e lenticchie.” Featuring tender lentils, al dente pasta, and a rich tomato-herb broth, this dish is packed with plant-based protein and fiber. It’s a nutritious, comforting, and easy-to-make meal perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
For the Lentil Pasta:
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 large carrot, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
- 1 bay leaf (or 1 fresh sage leaf)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 4 cups vegetable broth (plus extra if needed)
- 1 cup ditalini pasta (or penne, conchiglie, rotini)
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Flavor Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add onion and carrot; sauté for 4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, rosemary, bay leaf, and tomato paste; cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
2. Add Lentils and Simmer:
- Add rinsed lentils, cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and black pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are nearly tender.
3. Incorporate Pasta:
- Stir in pasta and add more vegetable broth if needed to ensure even cooking.
- Simmer for 12 minutes, stirring frequently, until pasta is al dente.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
4. Finalize and Serve:
- Remove from heat and discard the rosemary sprig and bay leaf.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Enjoy warm as a hearty main dish or side.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta instead of wheat-based pasta.
- Add Extra Vegetables: Stir in chopped kale, spinach, chard, or diced potatoes for more nutrients.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Herb Substitutions: Swap rosemary for thyme, oregano, or sage for a unique twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One-Pot Simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
