Ingredients:
- 200g protein pasta (such as chickpea or lentil pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 200g puy lentils, cooked
- 100g walnuts, chopped
- 200g spinach leaves
- 400g canned chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
- Cook the protein pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the diced carrot and celery to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the cooked puy lentils, chopped walnuts, and spinach leaves. Cook for a few minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Add the canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Stir well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Serve the vegetarian bolognese sauce over the protein pasta. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Enjoy your protein-packed vegetarian spaghetti bolognese! It’s a nutritious and satisfying meal that proves plant-based eating can be delicious and protein-rich.

Introduction: Indulge in a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic spaghetti bolognese with this vegetarian version featuring protein-packed pasta. Loaded with wholesome ingredients like puy lentils, walnuts, and spinach, this hearty dish offers a satisfying alternative to traditional meat-based recipes. Not only is it bursting with flavor, but it also provides a generous dose of essential nutrients, making it a perfect choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
Ingredients:
- 200g protein pasta (e.g., chickpea or lentil pasta)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 200g cooked puy lentils
- 100g chopped walnuts
- 200g fresh spinach leaves
- 400g canned chopped tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Protein Pasta:
- Cook the protein pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Saute the Aromatics:
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Vegetables:
- Incorporate the diced carrot and celery into the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften.
4. Introduce the Protein:
- Stir in the cooked puy lentils and chopped walnuts, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
5. Incorporate the Greens:
- Add the fresh spinach leaves to the skillet and gently toss until wilted.
6. Create the Sauce:
- Pour in the canned chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Sprinkle in the dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.
7. Simmer and Thicken:
- Allow the sauce to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together.
8. Serve:
- Spoon the vegetarian bolognese sauce over the protein pasta.
- Optionally, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Nutritional Information:
- Serving Size: 1 portion (approx. 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: TBD
- Total Fat: TBD
- Saturated Fat: TBD
- Cholesterol: TBD
- Sodium: TBD
- Total Carbohydrates: TBD
- Dietary Fiber: TBD
- Sugars: TBD
- Protein: TBD
- SmartPoints® Value: TBD
Conclusion: Elevate your pasta night with this nutrient-rich Vegetarian Spaghetti Bolognese featuring protein-packed pasta. Not only does this dish offer a delectable twist on a beloved classic, but it also provides a wholesome blend of flavors and textures. Whether you’re a vegetarian looking for a hearty meal or simply seeking a meat-free alternative, this recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings while nourishing your body. Enjoy the goodness of plant-based eating with every forkful!