Hearty and Flavorful Plant-Based Lentil Pasta

Lentils have been a staple in many cultures and cuisines around the world for thousands of years. As more and more people look to join plant-based diets, lentils are taking the lead for the most affordable and versatile source of protein. With their superpower-like health benefits, you’ll want to be sure you always have them stocked in your kitchen and try out recipes like this plant-based lentil pasta.

This hearty and flavorful plant-based lentil pasta is the perfect option for those wanting a delicious and nutritious plant-based meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried whole green lentils
• ¾ cup short pasta
• 32 oz vegetable broth
• ¾ cup water
• 1 dry pint cherry tomatoes, sliced in half lengthwise
• 2 tablespoons olive oil 
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper

Instructions

STEP 1:

Heat a large pan on medium heat with olive oil. Once oil is hot, add onions and stir frequently until onions become golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. If onions stick to the pan, add in ½ tbs more oil.

STEP 2:

Add in garlic once onions have browned. Stir until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. 

STEP 3:

Add in sliced cherry tomatoes, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and stir until cherry tomatoes begin to soften.

STEP 4:

Add cumin, coriander, paprika, tomato paste and stir for 10-15 minutes, then add lentils.

STEP 5:

On medium heat, add in broth, cover with lid and set timer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally. 

STEP 6:

Add in pasta, water, and partially cover with lid. Cook for an additional 8-12 minutes, depending on instructions on the individual pasta box.

Lentils have been around for ages. The earliest documentation of lentil consumption dates all the way back to 8,000 BCE in what is now Turkey. Lentils were also popular in Egypt, Romans, India, and parts of Europe. They’ve been around for centuries in so many styles of cooking not only for health and enjoyment, but for their medicinal properties too. Because they are known for their rich history and superfood powers, they still remain a popular ingredient due to their affordability, versatility, and health benefits. 

Lentils can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and curries. It’s a great way to experiment with plant-based cooking or incorporate more lentils into your diet. This particular recipe is not only delicious and filling, but a great example of lentils can be incorporated into a variety of dishes as many people might not think of pairing lentils with pasta and warm spices.

I particularly love how affordable lentils are, especially if purchased from a cost-effective grocery store like Trader Joe’s. As a young person on a budget, I do my best to always look for cost effective ways to save money on groceries without giving up the quality of ingredients. Trader Joe’s is the perfect solution because they offer competitive prices for all the ingredients needed for this recipe, which will help keep the overall cost of this plant-based lentil pasta dish low. 

Even though there are an abundance of lentil recipes out there, this recipe might just be my favorite way to prepare lentils. I originally got the inspiration from “Plant Based School,” but tweaked it a bit to make the dish fit my preferences and keep the ingredients low-cost. And with the help of trusty Trader Joe’s offering all the necessary ingredients at affordable prices, it’s a win-win situation for both taste-buds and the wallet.

For other easy dinners, check out our easy dinner recipe page.

For more healthy and veggie-friendly recipes, check out our veggie friendly page.