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Red Lentil Spaghetti Sauce Recipe Easy Homemade Pasta Sauce for Beginners

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A hearty and wholesome red lentil spaghetti sauce that is quick, protein-packed, and perfect for weeknight dinners. This sauce offers a creamy texture and classic Italian flavors using simple pantry staples.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup red lentils (about 200g), rinsed and drained
  • 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes (about 800g)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small carrot, grated or finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped (optional)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth or water (480 ml)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar
  • A handful fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Rinse the red lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery finely.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat in a large saucepan. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Stir in the rinsed red lentils, crushed tomatoes, and 2 cups of vegetable broth or water. Mix well to combine.
  4. Sprinkle in dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to distribute the spices evenly.
  5. Bring the sauce to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover partially. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce thickens, about 20-25 minutes. Add more broth or water if the sauce gets too thick.
  6. Optional: Use an immersion blender to pulse the sauce a few times to slightly puree the lentils while leaving some texture. Alternatively, transfer half the sauce to a blender, pulse briefly, and stir it back in.
  7. Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar to brighten the flavors. Adjust seasoning to taste. Toss in chopped fresh basil or parsley just before serving.
  8. Serve the sauce generously over cooked spaghetti or your favorite pasta. Garnish with extra herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan if desired.

Notes

Rinse lentils well to remove dust and avoid bitterness. Stir frequently during simmering to prevent lentils from sticking. Partial blending creates a creamy texture while retaining some heartiness. Adjust seasoning gradually as lentils absorb salt during cooking. Add broth or water as needed to maintain sauce consistency. Sauce freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: red lentil spaghetti sauce, homemade pasta sauce, easy lentil sauce, vegan pasta sauce, gluten-free pasta sauce, healthy pasta sauce, weeknight dinner

Find it online: https://cooltastes.com/red-lentil-spaghetti-sauce-recipe-easy-homemade-pasta-sauce-for-beginners/