Vegan Bolognese Using Lentils & Gardein
Craving a rich, comforting pasta dish without the meat? This Vegan Bolognese using Lentils & Gardein is your answer! Packed with bold flavors, hearty textures, and plant-powered protein, this dish is perfect for satisfying your Italian cravings.With a savory base of lentils, Gardein crumbles, and a luscious marinara sauce, this vegan bolognese is a healthier twist on the classic. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine for depth, and finish it off with vegan cheese for that creamy goodness.Whether you’re making a weeknight dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving up something special, this vegan bolognese sauce will become your go-to!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing and adding richness.
- 1 small onion – Finely chopped.
- 3 garlic cloves – Minced.
- 1 medium carrot – Diced.
- 2 celery stalks – Diced.
- 1 cup Gardein Beefless Ground Crumbles – For a meaty plant-based texture.
- 1 can 15 oz lentils – Drained and rinsed.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste – Adds concentrated flavor.
- 2 cups marinara sauce – Your favorite store-bought or homemade.
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar or red wine – For depth and richness.
- Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A perfect blend of oregano thyme, and basil.
- 1 bay leaf – For earthy aroma. optional
- Salt and black pepper – To taste.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes – Optional for a touch of heat.
- For Serving
- 8 oz spaghetti – Choose regular whole wheat, or gluten-free.
- Vegan Parmesan cheese – For that creamy cheesy finish.
- Fresh basil – Chopped for garnish.
Instructions
Cook the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add finely chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the Gardein & Lentils
- Stir in the Gardein crumbles and cook until browned.
- Add the lentils and mix well for a heartier texture.
Build the Sauce
- Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
- Pour in the marinara sauce and a splash of balsamic vinegar or red wine.
- Season with Italian seasoning, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Simmer to Perfection
- Let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The sauce will thicken beautifully.
Cook the Pasta
- While the sauce simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.
- Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the bay leaf from the sauce.
- Toss the pasta in the bolognese sauce or serve it over the top.
- Sprinkle with grated vegan cheese and garnish with fresh basil.