Tagliatelle With Lentils Ragú Recipe
Tagliatelle with Lentils Ragú is a must-try for those who love hearty, flavorful, and healthy meals. This pasta combines a savory lentil ragú rich with vegetables, offering both simplicity and nutrition for any day.
Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, try making tagliatelle with lentil ragú. This dish combines the rich flavors of a traditional ragú with the health benefits of lentils, making it both satisfying and nutritious. The key to this recipe is the fragrant soffritto, which forms the base of the sauce, allowing the lentils and tomatoes to shine. This versatile recipe allows you to experiment with different types of pasta, but tagliatelle is highly recommended for its ability to hold the sauce well. Additionally, you’ll love how it’s protein-packed with 33 g of protein per plate from lentils. Once you master this dish, it will quickly become a staple in your meal rotation. Now, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create this comforting and flavorful recipe.
Ingredients:
- Tagliatelle pasta
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Carrot
- Celery stalk
- Garlic cloves
- Lentils
- Canned tomatoes or tomato passata
- Vegetable broth
- Bay leaf
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh parsley
Instructions:
- Prepare the Soffritto:
- Finely chop the onion, carrot, and celery stalk.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped vegetables and sauté until they become soft and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cook the Lentils:
- Add minced garlic to the soffritto and cook for another minute.
- Add the lentils, canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pan.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally.
- Cook the Pasta:
- In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Add the tagliatelle and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving a cup of pasta water.
- Combine and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf from the lentil ragú.
- Add the cooked tagliatelle to the sauce, tossing everything together.
- If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
- Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor profile, consider adding a splash of red wine to the lentil ragú while it simmers. If you prefer a spicier dish, incorporate some red pepper flakes during the cooking process.
Additionally, different varieties of lentils can be used, such as green or brown, but be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly. Enjoy experimenting with this recipe to suit your taste!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Substitute Tagliatelle With Another Type of Pasta?
Absolutely, you can substitute tagliatelle with various pasta alternatives!
Fettuccine or pappardelle are fantastic choices, both offering similar textures and flavors. Just remember to check the cooking times, as they might differ slightly.
Linguine works well too, especially with lighter sauces. For a low-carb option, try zucchini noodles!
Each alternative can create a delicious dish, so don’t hesitate to explore different pasta types while cooking. Enjoy the culinary adventure!
How Long Does This Dish Keep in the Refrigerator?
You’ll love knowing that your lentil ragú has a refrigerator storage life of about 5 days!
Just let it cool completely before sealing it in an airtight container. This not only preserves its deliciousness but allows the flavors to develop even more over time.
You can easily reheat it on the stove or microwave for a quick and tasty meal.
Enjoy the convenience of meal planning while savoring every bite of your dish!
Is This Recipe Suitable for Vegans?
Absolutely, this recipe is perfect for vegans!
You’ll use vegan ingredients like lentils, tomato passata, and a tasty soffritto of carrot, celery, and onion. These delicious plant-based alternatives provide loads of protein and fiber.
Cooking with olive oil and seasoning with herbs makes it flavorful and satisfying! Plus, you can easily customize it with other veggies.
What Can I Serve With Tagliatelle and Lentils Ragú?
When you think of hearty dishes, tagliatelle and lentils ragú stand out, but pairing options elevate the meal!
Consider a fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette for a perfect balance. For wine suggestions, a light red, like Pinot Noir, harmonizes beautifully with the flavors.
You could also serve grilled vegetables on the side, enhancing the dish’s richness.
These additions will transform your meal into a delightful culinary experience that excites your taste buds!
Can I Freeze the Lentils Ragú for Later Use?
Absolutely, you can freeze lentils ragú for later use!
Start by cooling it completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags, making sure to remove excess air. Leave a half-inch headspace for expansion.
Remember, your ragú can last in the freezer for 2-3 months!
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it, reheat gently, and you’re all set for a delicious meal.
Happy cooking!
Conclusion
Enjoy the delicious tagliatelle with lentils ragú you’ve mastered! Remember, “You are what you eat,” so choose wholesome ingredients that nourish you. With rich flavors and vibrant textures, this dish will impress. Roll up your sleeves, invite friends, and enjoy cooking together. Happy cooking!
