Vegan Lentil Bolognese Zucchini (Printable)

A robust blend of lentils and tomato sauce served over crisp spiralized zucchini and carrots.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 2 medium zucchinis, spiralized
02 - 2 large carrots, spiralized
03 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
04 - 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
05 - 2 medium carrots, finely diced
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Legumes

07 - 1 cup dry brown or green lentils, rinsed

→ Liquids

08 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
09 - 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
10 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
11 - 2 cups vegetable broth

→ Seasonings

12 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
13 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
14 - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
15 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
16 - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
17 - Salt and black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

18 - Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, optional
19 - Nutritional yeast, optional

# How-To Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, celery, and diced carrots. Sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until softened and translucent.
02 - Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add lentils, tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
04 - Bring mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender and sauce has thickened. Add additional broth or water if needed.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
06 - While sauce simmers, spiralize the zucchinis and carrots. Set aside on paper towels.
07 - Just before serving, lightly sauté spiralized zucchini and carrots in a large pan over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until just tender but still crisp. Alternatively, serve raw for additional crunch.
08 - Divide spiralized vegetables among serving plates. Top with lentil Bolognese. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and nutritional yeast if desired.

# Expert Hints:

01 -
  • Plant-Based Protein: Lentils provide a dense, earthy texture and high protein content.
  • Low Carb & Healthy: Zucchini and carrot noodles replace traditional wheat pasta for a light, gluten-free option.
  • Full of Flavor: A blend of garlic, oregano, basil, and smoked paprika creates a rich, savory profile.
02 -
  • Don't Overcook: Only sauté the veggie noodles for 2–3 minutes to keep them from becoming watery and losing their crunch.
  • Sauce Texture: If the sauce is too thin, simmer uncovered for the last 5 minutes; if too thick, whisk in extra vegetable broth.
  • Lentil Choice: Brown or green lentils are best as they hold their shape; avoid red lentils which will turn into a purée.
Go Back