Delicious Lentil and Vegetable Pasta Delight

This hearty and flavorful dish brings together the wholesome goodness of whole grain pasta and a medley of fresh vegetables. With its rich and savory sauce, this meal is both nourishing and satisfying. The addition of creamy Alpine cheese and the aromatic freshness of celery greens and dill give this pasta creation a delightful twist. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. The dish strikes a perfect balance between taste and nutrition, with tender lentils providing plant-based protein while vegetables enhance the dish with vibrant colors and flavors. Lightly spiced with fragrant bay leaf and allspice, this meal is completed by the nutty undertones of whole grain pasta. Serve up this delicious pasta, and it is sure to become a family favorite cherished for its delightful taste and simplicity.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

1 can of steamed lentils
200 g whole grain pasta
125 g Alpine cheese
1/2 celery root
2 medium-sized carrots
1 onion
3 tomatoes
2 cloves garlic
Celery greens
Dill
Vegetable oil

Spices and Sauces:

1 bay leaf
3-4 allspice berries
Salt
Pepper

Preparation Time

Total time: 30 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Gather all necessary ingredients. Dice the tomatoes after blanching and peeling them.
Chop Vegetables: Cut the remaining vegetables into small cubes and finely chop the garlic.
Sauté Vegetables: Heat vegetable oil in a pan, then add garlic, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 10 minutes.
Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Add the diced tomatoes to the pan and simmer on low heat until the vegetables are tender.
Incorporate Lentils: Pour the lentils into the pan, stirring them gently with the vegetable mix.
Season the Sauce: Introduce a bay leaf, allspice berries, salt, and freshly ground pepper. Mix well and heat through.
Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the water after cooking.
Prepare Cheese and Greens: Finely grate the cheese, and chop the celery greens and dill finely.
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and mix well.
Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle with grated cheese and fresh greens for a burst of flavor.
Enjoy!: Serve the pasta warm and dig in for a delicious experience.

Tips

For a creamier sauce, add a splash of cream or coconut milk.
Grating cheese just before serving enhances its flavor.
Use your preferred pasta type if whole grain is unavailable.

Nutritions

Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
Protein: 18g
Fats: 12g
Carbs: 65g

Variations

Replace lentils with chickpeas for a different texture and flavor.
Add spinach or kale for extra greens and nutrients.
Swap Alpine cheese with Parmesan or a vegan cheese for dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Garnish with lemon zest for added freshness.
Serve with crusty bread for a heartier option.

Best Places

Cafe de la Paix - Known for its exquisite pasta dishes and charming ambiance. Location: 12 Boulevard des Capucines, Paris, France.
Pasta Fresca da Salvatore - Offers a unique take on classic Italian recipes. Location: Via della Boschetta, Rome, Italy.
Le Bernardin - Celebrated for its seafood pasta specialties. Location: 155 West 51st Street, New York, USA.
Ristorante Da Vincenzo - A cozy spot for traditionally made pasta. Location: Via Genova 135, Milan, Italy.
Osteria Francescana - Features innovative pasta creations. Location: Via Stella 22, Modena, Italy.
The Fat Duck - Known for its experimental and delightful dishes. Location: High Street, Bray, UK.
Sant Pau - Offers beautiful seafood pasta on the coast. Location: Nou 10, Sant Pol de Mar, Spain.
Gaggan - Famed for its fusion pasta dishes. Location: 68/1 Langsuan Road, Bangkok, Thailand.
Quintonil - Celebrated for its unique twists on traditional recipes. Location: Calle Newton, Mexico City, Mexico.
La Pergola - Offers breathtaking views and exceptional pasta. Location: Via Alberto Cadlolo 101, Rome, Italy.