Enjoy vegan spaghetti bolognese—a hearty, plant-based take on the classic Italian dish with rich tomato sauce and lentils.
Vegan spaghetti bolognese is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. Moreover, it delivers the classic Italian taste without meat, making it ideal for family dinners, meal prep, or cozy weeknights.
⏱ Time
Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 30 minutes
Serves: 4
🧺 Ingredients
- 300 g spaghetti (regular or whole wheat)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, grated
- ½ cup mushrooms, finely chopped
- 1 cup cooked lentils (brown or green)
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
Firstly, cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a pan. Then, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
Next, add carrot and mushrooms, cooking until softened.
After that, stir in lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Then, simmer for 15–20 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.
Finally, toss sauce with spaghetti or serve on top, garnished with fresh herbs.
🌟 Tips & Variations
- Extra Protein: Add soy mince, tofu crumbles, or chickpeas.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free spaghetti.
- Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Spicy Version: Include chili flakes.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of oat cream before serving.
🌿 Benefits of Vegan Spaghetti Bolognese
Firstly, lentils provide plant-based protein and fiber, supporting fullness and digestion.
Secondly, tomatoes offer antioxidants like lycopene, promoting heart health.
Moreover, vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals.
In addition, this dish is cholesterol-free and heart-friendly.
As a result, it’s both comforting and nutritious.
Finally, it’s easy to batch-cook for busy days.
🧒 Kid-Friendly Version
- Firstly, finely chop vegetables so kids don’t notice them.
- Then, reduce herbs and spices for a milder flavor.
- Next, serve with fun pasta shapes instead of spaghetti.
- Finally, top with vegan parmesan for extra appeal.
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 380–420 kcal
- Protein: 16 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fat: 8 g
- Fiber: 12 g
- Sugar: 8 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
