Penne with Vegetarian Red Lentil Sauce

Name: Penne with Vegetarian Red Lentil Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 300 g penne pasta; 1 cup red lentils (rinsed and drained); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 can diced tomatoes ((400 g)); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)

40 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

A hearty and nutritious vegetarian penne dish with a delicious red lentil sauce packed with flavour and protein.

Prep

15 min

Cook

25 min

Total

40 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Penne with Vegetarian Red Lentil Sauce is a nourishing and satisfying dish perfect for any pasta lover looking to enjoy a meatless meal. Red lentils are an excellent source of protein and fibre, making this sauce not only delicious but also nutritious. This recipe combines the wholesome earthiness of lentils with aromatic herbs and tomatoes, resulting in a rich and hearty sauce that clings perfectly to penne pasta. It's a perfect dinner option for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend meal.

Instructions

Cook the pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Pro tip: Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.

Sauté onions and garlic

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Pro tip: Be careful not to burn the garlic to avoid a bitter taste.

Add tomatoes and lentils

Stir in the diced tomatoes and rinsed lentils. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.

Pro tip: Use canned tomatoes with no added salt to control the seasoning level.

Simmer the sauce

Pour in the vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 15-20 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Pro tip: Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Combine pasta and sauce

Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss well to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

Pro tip: Ensure the pasta is heated through before serving.

Serve and garnish

Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Pro tip: Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra flavour if not strictly vegetarian.

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Tips & Tricks

Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any debris or dust.
Cook your pasta al dente to ensure it holds up well with the sauce.
Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavour.
Add a splash of pasta water to adjust sauce consistency if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cooking time for red lentils?

Red lentils typically cook in about 15-20 minutes when simmered in liquid.

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils. Drain and rinse them, then reduce the simmering time to 5 minutes.

How do I make the sauce creamier?

You can add a splash of cream or a dollop of plain yogurt to the sauce for a creamier texture.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Absolutely, simply substitute the penne with your favourite gluten-free pasta.

How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Is it possible to add more vegetables?

Yes, feel free to add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

This penne with red lentil sauce pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or a side of garlic bread. The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, or frozen for up to two months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a bit of water or broth if needed to reach your desired consistency. Enjoy this dish as a comforting and healthy meal that satisfies both vegetarians and pasta enthusiasts alike.

Nutrition per serving

450

Calories

18g

Protein

10g

Fat

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