Lentils With Pasta
A hearty, comforting dish combining tender lentils with pasta, infused with garlic and celery for a simple, nutritious meal suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Measure 6 cups of cold water into a saucepan.
- Put the lentils, 4 cloves of garlic (whole with slit), and chopped celery into the water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Cut the pasta into small pieces and cook separately until al dente.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the cooked lentils.
- Add olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste, then serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider sautéing the garlic and celery in olive oil before adding them to the lentils. If you're out of lentils, chickpeas can be a great substitute, adding a different texture and taste. You can also add herbs like thyme or bay leaves for added depth. If you prefer a heartier dish, mix in some vegetables like carrots or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish warm, drizzled with extra olive oil for richness. It pairs beautifully with a fresh side salad or crusty bread. Consider complementing it with a light dressing, such as Dressing For Tomatoes, to enhance the flavors. It also works well as a base for grilled vegetables or proteins, making it versatile for meal planning.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out, or microwave until heated through. This dish also freezes well, so portion out servings and freeze for quick meals later.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentils With Pasta contains roughly 3223 calories, with 1g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 362g fat. It is a good source of iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1813mg per serving (79% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot in the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm through. Adjust the cooking time accordingly since canned lentils are already cooked.
What can I add for extra protein?
For additional protein, consider adding cooked sausage or chicken to the lentils and pasta. You can also mix in some canned beans, such as chickpeas, for a vegetarian option that fits well with Mediterranean recipes.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Lentils with pasta makes a great meal prep option. You can prepare a large batch and portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just follow the storage tips to keep it fresh.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).