Sicilian Lentil Pasta Sauce (Vegan)

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Servings: 8 Difficulty: Intermediate
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A hearty, plant-based sauce blending earthy lentils and savory mushrooms with rich tomato flavors
Sicilian Lentil Pasta Sauce (Vegan recipe image

This comforting Sicilian-inspired sauce is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients. Earthy dried lentils simmer slowly with aromatic onions and earthy mushrooms, creating a thick, hearty texture that mimics traditional meat ragùs. The addition of tomato paste and canned tomato sauce provides a bright, acidic backbone that balances the natural sweetness of the lentils and mushrooms. ItâÂÂs a robust, satisfying dish perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal-prepping for the week ahead. Rich in fiber and protein, this vegan-friendly sauce coats pasta beautifully, offering a deep, umami-packed flavor profile that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a complete, home-style meal that brings warmth to the table.

Sicilian Lentil Pasta Sauce (Vegan recipe image
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Sicilian Lentil Pasta Sauce (Vegan)

Author: chefs-mate Cooking Method: , Cuisine: Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Servings: 8 Calories: 366.3

Description

This comforting Sicilian-inspired sauce is a testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients. Earthy dried lentils simmer slowly with aromatic onions and earthy mushrooms, creating a thick, hearty texture that mimics traditional meat rag&# 195;¹s. The addition of tomato paste and canned tomato sauce provides a bright, acidic backbone that balances the natural sweetness of the lentils and mushrooms. ItâÂÂs a robust, satisfying dish perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal-prepping for the week ahead. Rich in fiber and protein, this vegan-friendly sauce coats pasta beautifully, offering a deep, umami-packed flavor profile that feels indulgent yet nourishing. Serve it over your favorite pasta for a complete, home-style meal that brings warmth to the table.

Ingredients

Directions

  1. Rinse the dried lentils under cold water and drain well.
  2. In a large saucepan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sliced mushrooms.
  3. Sauté the onions and mushrooms for 5-7 minutes until softened and the mushrooms have released their moisture.
  4. Stir in the finely chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the rinsed lentils, 3 cups of water, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and sugar to the pot. Stir well to combine.
  6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  7. If the sauce is too thick, stir in the remaining 1/2 cup of water to reach desired consistency.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over cooked pasta.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 8

Amount Per Serving
Calories 366.3kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 3.4g6%
Saturated Fat 0.6g3%
Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
Sodium 2886.1mg121%
Total Carbohydrate 73.5g25%
Dietary Fiber 19.0g76%
Sugars 36.9g
Protein 21.4g43%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

Use green or brown lentils for this recipe as they hold their shape better during simmering. Red lentils will break down and create a soupier texture.

For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or dried oregano while sautéing the onions.

Store leftover sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It freezes well for up to 3 months.

If you prefer a smoother sauce, you can blend half of the sauce with an immersion blender before serving.

Keywords: vegan, lentil, pasta, sauce, sicilian, italian, mushroom, onion, garlic, tomato, plant-based, hearty, dinner, comfort-food, fiber-rich, meal-prep, easy, budget-friendly
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