Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors! This Sun Dried Tomato Puy Lentil Pasta isn't just another vegan recipe—it's a vibrant, protein-packed meal that promises to tantalize your palate and revolutionize your dinner routine. With its rich Italian-inspired profile and wholesome ingredients, this dish proves that plant-based eating can be incredibly delicious, satisfying, and effortlessly gourmet.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup Puy lentils, cooked
- 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Select your preferred pasta variety, such as whole wheat penne or fusilli.
- While the water heats, ensure your Puy lentils are pre-cooked. If not, simmer them in vegetable broth for approximately 20-25 minutes until tender but still maintaining their shape.
- Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and Italian seasoning, sautéing for 2-3 minutes to release their aromatic flavors.
- Drain the cooked pasta and add it directly to the skillet with sun-dried tomatoes. Fold in the pre-cooked Puy lentils, gently mixing to combine all ingredients.
- If the mixture seems dry, gradually add reserved pasta water to create a light, glossy coating on the pasta and lentils.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh basil leaves or nutritional yeast for added flavor and nutrition.
Tips
- Lentil Pro Tip: Always slightly undercook your Puy lentils to maintain their signature firm texture and prevent mushiness.
- Flavor Boost: Toast your Italian seasoning in the olive oil for 30 seconds before adding sun-dried tomatoes to intensify the aromatic profile.
- Pasta Water Magic: Never discard all pasta water! The starchy liquid is a secret weapon for creating a silky, clingy sauce.
- Texture Variation: For added crunch, consider toasting some pine nuts or breadcrumbs as a final garnish.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe can be prepared in advance and reheated, with flavors often improving after resting for a few hours.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 67g
Protein: 14g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
