Easy Healthy Spaghetti with Lentils and Marinara Sauce is a hearty, tomato‑rich dinner that comes together in under 40 minutes. The lentils add a meaty bite while the sauce stays silky and bright. It’s a budget‑friendly, pantry‑staple meal that even picky eaters love. Pair it with my Easy Black Bean Tacos with Creamy Cilantro Sauce for a full family‑style feast.
★★★★½ 4.5 (122 reviews)
Why You'll Love Easy Healthy Spaghetti with Lentils and Marinara Sauce – Quick, Protein‑Packed Weeknight Dinner
Discover Easy Healthy Spaghetti with Lentils and Marinara Sauce— a quick weeknight dinner packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Perfect family for families!
- Ready in 40 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights.
- High‑protein, high‑fiber vegetarian comfort food.
- Uses pantry staples you likely already have.
- Freezes well for future meals.
Ingredients
- Lentils: Brown or green lentils work best; you can substitute canned lentils for a faster version.
- Spaghetti: Whole‑wheat adds fiber; regular spaghetti is fine if preferred.
- Tomatoes: Use fire‑roasted canned tomatoes for extra smoky flavor.
Instructions
Step 1 – Cook the lentils: In a saucepan combine lentils and 3 cups water or broth. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook 20 minutes until tender but not mushy.
Step 2 – Prepare the sauce: While lentils cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red‑pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes.
Step 3 – Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 9‑11 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
Expert Tips for Easy Healthy Spaghetti with Lentils and Marinara Sauce – Quick, Protein‑Packed Weeknight Dinner
- Toast the lentils briefly in the skillet before adding liquid for deeper flavor.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce for a subtle sweetness.
- Use the reserved pasta water to achieve a glossy, emulsified sauce.
Easy Healthy Spaghetti with Lentils and Marinara Sauce – Quick, Protein‑Packed Weeknight Dinner
Discover Easy Healthy Spaghetti with Lentils and Marinara Sauce— a quick weeknight dinner packed with protein, fiber, and flavor. Perfect family for families!
★★★★½ 4.5 (122 reviews)
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 oz whole‑wheat spaghetti
- 1 cup dried brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Seasonings & Flavor Boosters
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp red‑pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions
How to Make Easy Healthy Spaghetti with Lentils and Marinara Sauce
- Step 1 – Cook the lentils: In a saucepan combine lentils and 3 cups water or broth. Bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook 20 minutes until tender but not mushy.
- Step 2 – Prepare the sauce: While lentils cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, red‑pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10 minutes.
- Step 3 – Cook the spaghetti: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 9‑11 minutes. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
- Step 4 – Combine & finish: Add cooked lentils (with any remaining cooking liquid) and drained spaghetti to the sauce. Toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water if needed for a silky texture. Stir in mozzarella until melted. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan and fresh basil.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Healthy Spaghetti with Lentils and Marinara Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can fully prepare the dish and refrigerate; reheat gently before serving.
What’s the best substitute for lentils?
Use canned chickpeas, cooked quinoa, or ground turkey for a non‑vegetarian option.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool to room temperature, then place in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.
Why did my sauce turn out watery?
Reduce the sauce a few minutes longer or add a little tomato paste to thicken.