One-Pot Lentil Tomato Pasta served and ready to eat

One-Pot Lentil Tomato Pasta

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Tomato, lentils, herbs, and pasta simmer in one pot for a budget-friendly dinner with plenty of plant-based protein.

One-Pot Lentil Tomato Pasta
Photo by Konstantinas Ladauskas on Unsplash.

One-Pot Lentil Tomato Pasta Recipe

Prep: 12 minutes   Cook: 23 minutes   Total: 35 minutes   Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 12 ounces short pasta such as penne or rotini
  • 1 can (15 ounces) brown lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3 cups baby spinach
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 1/3 cup grated Parmesan, optional

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium. Cook onion for 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; stir for 30 seconds.
  2. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, pasta, lentils, and salt. Bring to a steady simmer.
  3. Cook uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring often, until the pasta is tender. Lower the heat if the bottom begins to catch, and add a splash of water if needed.
  4. Stir in spinach until wilted, then add balsamic vinegar. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  5. Rest for 3 minutes to thicken. Serve with Parmesan if desired.

Why this recipe works

The pasta releases starch directly into the tomato broth, creating a naturally silky sauce. Canned lentils add protein without extending the cooking time.

Helpful tips

  • Stir more frequently during the final 5 minutes when the sauce thickens.
  • Different pasta shapes absorb liquid differently; keep hot water nearby.
  • Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a dairy-free finish.

Storage and reheating

Refrigerate in a covered container for up to 4 days. The pasta absorbs sauce as it rests, so add broth or water when reheating to 165°F.

Food-safety note: Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours and reheat them to 165°F.

Estimated nutrition

Per serving: 430 calories, 18 g protein, 74 g carbohydrates, and 8 g fat. Estimates vary by brands and portions.

Helpful kitchen gear

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