Healthy Lentil Bolognese — FoodieKid

Author: Jessica Blackman for FoodieKid Prep Time: 15 mins Cook Time: 30 mins Total Time: 45 minutes

Yield: 3 cups of sauce Category: Dinner Method for Simple Starters: Sautéed

Comfort foods are in high demand when the weather turns chilly and the days are short, but they aren’t always the healthiest or easiest meals to make. That’s why we love this recipe for Lentil Bolognese Sauce using our Simple Starters Lentil and Veggie Blend. Plant-based protein? Yes! Traditional Italian flavors? Yes! Healthy and delicious meal solution for infants, toddlers and their parents? Win win win!

We are always on the search for lighter versions of our favorite comfort foods, so this easy to make plant-based bolognese sauce really got our attention! By replacing the meat in a traditional Bolognese sauce with our Lentil and Veggie Blends, you’re not only making the prep of this classic meal easier, you’re also incorporating a healthier plant-based protein and an extra boost of veggies (carrots, red peppers and spinach) to the mix. With all of the traditional Italian flavors you’d expect from a red sauce, you can enjoy this healthy version of Bolognese over your favorite pasta or rice with family members of all ages! Buon Appetito!

Ingredients

1 tsp olive oil

1 small onion, finely diced

1 small garlic clove, minced

2 frozen packets of FoodieKid’s Lentil and Veggie Blend

2 tsp tomato paste

1 tsp mixed Italian herbs (such as basil and oregano)

1 14 ounce can diced tomato

1 tsp butter, optional

Salt, optional

Whole wheat pasta or brown rice, optional

Instructions:

Add olive oil to a sauté pan over medium heat. When shimmering, add onion and saute for 5 minutes. When the onion is soft, add garlic and 2 frozen packs of FoodieKid’s Simple Starters Lentil and Veggie Blend. Sauté for another 3-5 minutes or until vegetables are completely thawed and the carrots are softened. Add the tomato paste and Italian herbs and cook for 1 minute. Add diced tomatoes and ¼ cup water. Mix well and bring to a simmer. Lower the heat and partially cover. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Use a potato masher to help break down the tomatoes and veggies if needed. Add more water if the sauce gets too dry or too thick. Finish with a pat of butter or olive oil if preferred. Salt to taste if using. Serve over whole wheat pasta or brown rice.

To learn more or shop for Simple Starters, click here.