When it comes to budget-friendly plant-based meals, Spaghetti with Lentil Marinara Sauce checks all the boxes. This dish is delicious, hearty, and affordable, making it perfect for families or anyone on a budget. At just $0.92 per serving, it’s an excellent way to enjoy a nutritious, plant-based dinner without breaking the bank. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a family dinner, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Here are 5 reasons why you’ll love this simple, satisfying dish!
1. It’s Budget-Friendly
Spaghetti with Lentil Marinara Sauce is proof that you can enjoy healthy, plant-based meals without spending a fortune. With ingredients like dry lentils, spaghetti, and marinara sauce, the total cost for 12 servings is just $11.00. At less than $1 per serving, this recipe is perfect for families, meal preppers, or anyone looking to save money.
Cost Breakdown:
- Spaghetti (2 pounds): $2.40
- Dry Lentils (2 cups): $1.50
- Marinara Sauce (2 jars): $4.00
- Onions and Garlic: $1.80
- Olive Oil: $0.30
- Optional Garnish: $1.00
Total Cost: $11.00
Cost per Serving: $0.92
2. Packed with Nutrition
This dish isn’t just affordable—it’s loaded with nutrients. Lentils are a plant-based powerhouse, offering protein, fiber, and essential vitamins like iron and folate. When paired with the tomatoes, onions, and garlic in the marinara sauce, you get a meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.
3. Family-Friendly Flavors
The comforting, mild flavors of this dish make it a hit with kids and adults alike. The creamy marinara sauce pairs perfectly with the hearty lentils and tender spaghetti, creating a meal that feels indulgent while being packed with wholesome ingredients.
4. Easy to Make
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or beginner cooks. With just a few simple steps, you can have a hearty meal ready in 30 minutes. All you need to do is cook the lentils, boil the spaghetti, and combine everything in a flavorful marinara sauce. It’s that simple!
5. Versatile and Customizable
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Want to add more veggies? Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for an extra nutrient boost. Prefer gluten-free options? Swap the spaghetti for gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles. You can also adjust the spice level to your liking by adding chili flakes or cayenne.
Ingredients for Spaghetti with Lentil Marinara Sauce
- Spaghetti (2 pounds): A budget-friendly staple that’s perfect for this dish.
- Dry Lentils (2 cups): Hearty, protein-packed, and affordable.
- Marinara Sauce (2 jars): Adds richness and flavor.
- Onions and Garlic: Aromatic ingredients that build the base of the dish.
- Olive Oil: For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
- Optional Garnish: Nutritional yeast or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1.Cook the Lentils:
Rinse 2 cups of dry lentils and cook them in boiling water until tender (about 20-25 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2.Cook the Spaghetti:
Boil water in a large pot and cook 2 pounds of spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3.Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add 2 diced onions and 4 minced garlic cloves, and sauté until fragrant and golden (about 3-4 minutes).
4.Make the Lentil Marinara Sauce:
Add the cooked lentils to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir in 2 jars of marinara sauce and mix well. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5.Combine:
Toss the cooked spaghetti with the lentil marinara sauce or serve the sauce over individual portions of pasta.
6.Serve:
Garnish with nutritional yeast or parsley and serve warm.
Tips for Budget-Friendly Plant-Based Meals
- Buy in Bulk: Save money by purchasing lentils, spaghetti, and marinara sauce in bulk or during sales.
- Get Creative: Add your favorite vegetables or spices to make this dish your own.
- Meal Prep: This recipe stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
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Quick, Nutritious, Delicious: Plant-Based Cooking for Busy Families
~Desty G
Ingredients
- 2 pounds spaghetti
- 2 cups dry lentils
- 2 jars 24 oz each marinara sauce
- 2 medium onions diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: nutritional yeast or parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Lentils:
- Rinse 2 cups of dry lentils and boil them in water for 20-25 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Spaghetti:
- Boil a large pot of water and cook 2 pounds of spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until fragrant and softened.
Prepare the Lentil Marinara Sauce:
- Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the onions and garlic.
- Stir in 2 jars of marinara sauce. Let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes to blend the flavors.
Combine:
- Toss the cooked spaghetti with the lentil marinara sauce or serve the sauce over individual portions.
Serve:
- Garnish with nutritional yeast or parsley, and enjoy your hearty, budget-friendly pasta!
