Imagine a delicious, nutritious meal that comes together in just 25 minutes with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor! This One Pot Lentil Pasta is not just a recipe; it's a culinary lifesaver for busy home cooks who crave a hearty, protein-packed dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. With a perfect blend of tender pasta, protein-rich lentils, and a symphony of Italian-inspired seasonings, this dish will transform your weeknight cooking from mundane to magnificent.
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of choice
- 1 cup lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, lentils, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Add the pasta directly into the liquid, ensuring it is mostly submerged. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Cover the skillet and cook for 15-18 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and lentils are tender.
- If the liquid reduces too quickly, add a small amount of water to prevent burning.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Remove from heat and let sit for 2-3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Pasta: Use short pasta shapes like penne, rotini, or shells that cook evenly and hold sauce well.
- Liquid Ratio is Key: Keep an eye on the liquid while cooking. If the mixture looks too dry, add a bit more vegetable broth or water to prevent burning.
- Don't Overcook: Aim for al dente pasta by checking texture around the 15-minute mark. Lentils should be tender but not mushy.
- Customize Your Flavor: Experiment with different herbs like oregano or thyme, or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Make it Creamy: For a richer texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or nutritional yeast at the end of cooking.
- Garnish Generously: Fresh basil is great, but consider adding grated Parmesan or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 60g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
