Are you ready to elevate your dinner game with a delightful twist on a classic Italian dish? Say goodbye to ordinary meatballs and hello to the scrumptious Spaghetti and Lentil Balls! This vibrant recipe combines the wholesome goodness of lentils with the comforting flavors of spaghetti and marinara sauce, creating a meal that's not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions, this dish will have your family asking for seconds. Dive into this article to discover how to whip up this mouthwatering meal in just 45 minutes!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 200g spaghetti
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Using clean hands, form the lentil mixture into small, round balls approximately 1-inch in diameter. Place the formed balls on a clean plate or baking sheet.
- Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with olive oil. Carefully place the lentil balls in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy on the exterior.
- While the lentil balls are cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes.
- In a separate saucepan, warm the marinara sauce over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Drain the cooked spaghetti and return it to the pot. Toss with a small amount of marinara sauce to prevent sticking.
- Plate the spaghetti, top with the cooked lentil balls, and generously cover with remaining marinara sauce.
- Optionally, garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves before serving hot.
Tips
- Perfecting the Lentil Balls: Make sure your lentils are well-cooked and slightly mashed for a better texture. This helps the balls hold together while cooking.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices. Adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give your lentil balls a nice kick!
- Crispy Exterior: For an extra crispy texture, consider baking the lentil balls at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes after pan-frying them.
- Sauce Options: While marinara sauce is a classic choice, try using pesto or a homemade tomato basil sauce for a unique twist.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your spaghetti and lentil balls with a fresh side salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian feast.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the lentil balls in advance and refrigerate them. They can be cooked fresh when you're ready to serve, making meal prep a breeze!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 55mg
