Are you looking for a quick, easy, and healthy dinner recipe that's both satisfying and delicious? Look no further! This lentils and pasta recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and is packed with protein and fiber. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking that doesn't require extensive culinary skills, making it ideal for beginners and experienced cooks alike. This recipe is easily adaptable, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas. Get ready to enjoy this wholesome and flavorful dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 cup small pasta (ditalini, elbow macaroni, or your favorite shape)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Lentils
Add the minced garlic, oregano, and basil to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Then, stir in the rinsed lentils.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While the lentils are simmering, cook the pasta according to package directions. Be sure to drain well before adding it to the soup.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Once the lentils are cooked, gently stir in the cooked pasta. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth. If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes at this stage. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Check them for tenderness around the 25-minute mark.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs, salt, and pepper to your liking.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to this recipe.
- Make it a complete protein: Adding a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese will boost the protein content.
Variations:
- Spicy Lentils and Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is naturally vegetarian and easily made vegan by using vegetable broth.
- Hearty Sausage and Lentils: Brown some Italian sausage before adding the vegetables for a heartier meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a substantial amount of protein and fiber, making it a healthy and filling meal. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. A rough estimate per serving would be around 300-350 calories, with a good source of protein and fiber. For precise values, it's best to use a nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients. This delicious and easy recipe is a perfect addition to your collection of healthy meals and best recipes!