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Have you ever craved a rich and hearty sauce that doesn’t require hours of slaving over the stove? This Slow Cooker Vegetable and Lentil Bolognese fits the bill perfectly. It’s an easy meal prep solution that lets you set it and forget it, transforming simple ingredients into an incredible dish that satisfies your taste buds.

Imagine a thick, savory bolognese sauce simmering gently all day, filling your home with the cozy aroma of tomatoes, herbs, and lentils. This recipe is not just delicious; it’s also a healthy option packed with nutritious vegetables and plant-based protein, making it ideal for family dinners or meal prep for the week.

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Vegetable and Lentil Bolognese

This bolognese is rich, hearty, and full of flavor, combining lentils with an array of vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, and onions. The taste is a delightful balance of savory and slightly sweet, complemented by aromatic herbs that bring everything together. Serve it over your favorite pasta, and you have a wholesome meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
  • Cooked pasta of choice for serving

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a slow cooker, add lentils, diced onion, carrots, bell pepper, minced garlic, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and vegetable broth.
  2. Stir Well: Mix everything together until well combined.
  3. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
  4. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve the bolognese over cooked pasta and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Cook and Prep Times

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6-8 hours
  • Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes

Nutrition Information

  • Servings: 6 servings
  • Calories: 280kcal
  • Fat: 2g
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g