Are you looking for healthy mid-week dinner inspiration? Then you’re in the right place! We love this lentil Bolognese recipe.

It’s ready in less than half an hour and packed full of flavour. We find this dish particularly popular with the families we work with, as it’s a fantastic opportunity to chuck loads of veg in! Plus, the lentils are high in fibre and a source of plant-based protein. No matter your age, this is a great, go-to, healthy recipe.

Ready to get started?

Ingredients:

Serves 4

• 300g pasta
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 300g mushrooms, diced
• 1 courgette, diced
• 1 tsp garlic granules
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 2 tins of green lentils
• 1 tin of chopped tomatoes
• 1 tbsp tomato purée
• Salt and pepper

Method

1. Heat the oil on a medium heat and add the onions, courgette and mushrooms. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
2. Add in the garlic, basil and oregano, continue cooking for 1 minute.
3. Add in the lentils, chopped tomatoes and tomato purée and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
4. If it starts to dry out, add some water to it.
5. Season to taste and serve with pasta (and 4 tbsp low-fat grated cheese if you would like).

Our top tips:

• This dish can easily be cooked in the slow cooker – saving you time during the week!
• You can throw in any other veg to bulk it out (e.g. celery, carrots). Not only does this add extra flavour, but it also can help you reach your five-a-day goals.
• Are you looking to save time on money? You can go for dried herbs rather than fresh.
• You can serve with wholemeal pasta for an added fibre boost. 

Looking for more free recipes like this one? Check out our Beezee programmes. We offer free healthy lifestyle support for people of all ages across Hounslow.