Spaghetti with Meaty Lentil Sauce

My Spaghetti with Meaty Lentil Sauce is a nutrient packed vegetarian dinner that comes together quickly. This hearty pasta recipe is great for an easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love. The lentils help bulk the sauce up and add both fiber and protein to this dish. Serve with a side of salad and bread for a full meal.

📝 Ingredients

• 350-400 grams uncooked spaghetti (enough for about 4 people)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 small diced yellow onion (about 1/2 cup)
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 3/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon granulated garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce
• 2 teaspoon tamari, or soy sauce (optional)
• 2 (15 oz) cans brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1/4 cup chopped raw walnuts (optional)
• Optional toppings: grated parmesan cheese, chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1Spaghetti can be cooked ahead of time, or at the same time the sauce is cooking. To cook spaghetti, heat a large pot of water until boiling. Add in the pasta, along with a big pinch of salt, and cook according to package directions. Once pasta is cooked to desired texture, drain and set aside.*
2. 2Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once oil is hot, add in the diced onion and a pinch of salt. Mix together and cook onion until softened and translucent, 3-4 minutes. Next, add in minced garlic, as well as all of the spices, including: paprika, smoked paprika, granulated garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes, to taste. Mix onion and spices together for cook for just 1-2 minutes.
3. 3Next, add in the lentils and chopped walnuts. Mix everything together well and cook for 2-3 minutes before adding in the marinara sauce. Add the whole jar in and then add 1/4 of water to the empty jar, place the lid on and shake well and then pour what is left into the pan, along with the tamari. Mix everything together well and let sauce and lentils cook together for 4-5 minutes. Give the sauce a taste and season with salt and red pepper flakes, to taste.
4. 4Serve meaty lentil sauce over spaghetti, or your favorite pasta noodles. You can also mix the spaghetti directly into the sauce if you wish. Top with fresh parsley and grated parmesan and enjoy with a side of salad and bread.