Rich blend of tomatoes, lentils, and basil in a creamy sauce, ideal for a hearty main course.
# What You'll Need:
→ Lentil Base
01 - 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
02 - 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
→ Vegetables
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
05 - 2 carrots, diced
06 - 2 celery stalks, diced
07 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
→ Sauce
08 - 28 oz (800 g) can crushed tomatoes
09 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
10 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
11 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Creamy Finish
14 - 1/2 cup unsweetened plant-based cream (oat, soy, or cashew)
15 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
→ To Serve
16 - Cooked pasta of choice (e.g., spaghetti, rigatoni)
17 - Vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast (optional)
# Steps to Follow:
01 - In a medium saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes until lentils are tender but hold shape. Drain excess liquid and set aside.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened.
03 - Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
04 - Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
05 - Fold cooked lentils into the sauce. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken sauce and blend flavors.
06 - Reduce heat to low. Stir in plant-based cream and chopped fresh basil. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, then adjust seasoning as needed.
07 - Serve sauce over cooked pasta, topped with vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast if desired.
