One-Pot Lentil & Tomato Pasta

This comforting one-pot pasta brings together tender red lentils, simple herbs, and a rich tomato base. It’s wholesome, satisfying, and beautifully uncomplicated — a gentle reminder that nourishment doesn’t need to be elaborate to feel grounding and warm.

🛒 Ingredients (2–3 servings)

Base

• 1 cup (200 g) dry pasta (short shapes like fusilli or penne work best)

• ½ cup (100 g) red lentils, rinsed

• 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes

• 2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Seasoning

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp dried basil

• ½ tsp paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

To finish

• 1–2 tbsp nutritional yeast or grated cheese (optional)

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped

• A drizzle of olive oil

• Optional: chili flakes or a squeeze of lemon

⏱️ Time

Prep: 10 minutes
Cook: 20 minutes

🍳 Method

1. Sauté the aromatics
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
   Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
   Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

2. Add the pasta and lentils
   Pour in the dry pasta and rinsed red lentils. Mix well so everything is coated in the aromatics.

3. Build the sauce
   Add the canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
   Stir to combine.

4. Simmer until tender
   Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 12–15 minutes.
   Stir every couple of minutes to prevent sticking.
   If the pot looks too dry before the pasta is cooked, add a splash more broth or water.

5. Finish the dish
   When the pasta and lentils are soft and the sauce has thickened, remove from heat.
   Stir in nutritional yeast or cheese, if using.
   Taste and adjust seasoning.

6. Serve
   Divide into bowls and top with fresh basil or parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, and optional chili flakes or lemon.

🌱 Mindful Moment

As the pasta simmers, notice how the lentils gradually soften and the sauce thickens into something warm and comforting. Before your first bite, pause to appreciate how a single pot can transform simple ingredients into a nourishing, grounding meal.

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Did you try it? Share your tweaks and thoughts. How did your version turn out? Tell us in the comments below.