Lentil Pasta Sauce

Ingredients 7 items

• 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green)
• 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 lb pasta (any shape)
• 2 cups water
• Optional: 2 cloves garlic, minced, or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or oregano, Salt and pepper, Parmesan cheese

Equipment

• Medium pot with lid
• Large pot for pasta
• Knife and cutting board
• Stirring spoon
• Can opener
• Colander

Allergens: Contains wheat (pasta). Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-friendly version.

Instructions

1. Rinse lentils in a strainer.
2. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3-4 minutes until soft. Add garlic if using.
3. Add lentils, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and water. Stir together.
4. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer 25-30 minutes until lentils are very soft. Stir occasionally.
5. While sauce simmers, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain.
6. When lentils are soft, mash some with the back of your spoon to thicken the sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning if you have them.
7. Serve sauce over pasta.