Looking for a delicious and hearty meal that’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition? Look no further than our Hearty Spaghetti with Lentils Marinara! This Italian-inspired dish combines the classic flavors of marinara sauce with protein-rich lentils, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome family dinner. With just 40 minutes from prep to plate, you can enjoy a delightful meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Dive into this recipe that promises to elevate your pasta night and discover why lentils are the unsung heroes of the culinary world!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz spaghetti
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 jar marinara sauce
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and drain. Set aside.
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the lentils and marinara sauce. Add 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the lentils cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- While lentils are cooking, bring a separate large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- Drain the spaghetti and return to the pot. Season the lentil marinara sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the lentil marinara sauce over the cooked spaghetti and gently toss to combine, ensuring even coating.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh basil or grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Always rinse your lentils under cold water to remove any debris or impurities before cooking. This step ensures a cleaner taste and texture in your dish.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. The longer you cook them (without burning), the sweeter and more flavorful they will become, adding depth to your marinara sauce.
- Adjust Consistency: If you find the lentil marinara sauce too thick, feel free to add a little more water while it simmers. This will help achieve the desired consistency for coating your spaghetti perfectly.
- Perfectly Cooked Spaghetti: To ensure your spaghetti is cooked al dente, taste it a minute or two before the package instructions say it’s done. This will give you that perfect bite!
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Don’t skip the finishing touches! A sprinkle of fresh basil or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese can elevate the dish and add a burst of flavor that complements the marinara sauce beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 506kcal
Carbohydrates: 88g
Protein: 17g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
