Dinner

Lentil One‑Pot Pasta

Name: Lentil One‑Pot Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 12 oz (340g) whole wheat or regular pasta; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast or grated Parmesan (optional)

Bysarra August 3, 2025

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Short description

A hearty and wholesome one‑pot pasta made with lentils, tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and short pasta. It’s creamy, nutritious, and ready in under 45 minutes—ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers the perfect blend of convenience and nutrition. Cooked in a single pot, it saves time and reduces cleanup. Lentils provide plant-based protein and fiber, while the pasta and vegetables make it a complete and satisfying meal. It’s adaptable, budget-friendly, and ideal for vegetarians or anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Extra virgin olive oil
Onion, chopped
Carrot, chopped
Garlic, minced or grated
Rosemary sprig or thyme
Bay leaves
Tomato paste
Dried brown, green or French lentils
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Vegetable broth
Short pasta (e.g. ditalini, penne, rotini)
Salt and black pepper
Italian parsley, chopped
Optional: lemon juice or grated Parmesan cheese

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté the onion and carrot for about 4 minutes until softened.
Add garlic, rosemary or thyme, bay leaves, and tomato paste. Stir and cook for another minute to enhance the aroma.
Add lentils, cherry tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Stir well and bring to a simmer.
Cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are nearly tender.
Add the pasta and more broth if needed. Simmer for about 12 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is cooked and the mixture has thickened.
Remove bay leaves and herb sprigs. Stir in chopped parsley and adjust seasoning. Finish with lemon juice or Parmesan if desired.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Use red lentils and lentil pasta for a gluten-free version.
Stir in chopped spinach or kale at the end for added greens.
Add mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra texture.
Make it creamy by adding a spoonful of cream cheese or non-dairy cream.
Spice it up with red pepper flakes or smoked paprika.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing is not recommended as the texture of pasta and lentils may become mushy.

FAQs

What type of lentils should I use?

Brown, green, or French lentils work best as they hold their shape. Red lentils are not ideal because they break down quickly.

Do lentils need to be soaked?

No, soaking is not necessary for this recipe since the lentils cook directly in the broth.

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time and adjust the liquid since canned lentils are already cooked.

What kind of pasta is best for this recipe?

Short pasta like penne, ditalini, fusilli, or elbow macaroni works well for even cooking.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth is certified gluten-free.

Is this dish vegan?

Yes, it is naturally vegan. You can add Parmesan or cream if not following a vegan diet.

How can I add more flavor?

Try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar, a spoonful of miso, or additional herbs and spices like oregano or smoked paprika.

Can I add more protein?

Yes, you can add chickpeas, tofu, or seared tempeh for extra plant-based protein.

How do I avoid overcooked pasta?

Stir frequently and monitor the cooking time carefully. Add more broth if needed to keep the pasta from sticking.

Can I cook this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, but cooking times will be shorter. Adjust the liquid levels and use the sauté function for the initial steps.

Conclusion

Lentil One-Pot Pasta is a delicious, nutritious, and simple meal that delivers on both flavor and convenience. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or anyone looking to enjoy a balanced dish without spending hours in the kitchen. With endless variations and easy cleanup, it’s sure to become a staple in your cooking routine

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