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Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs is a delightful twist on a classic dish that everyone loves. This hearty meal combines spaghetti with savory lentil meatballs, all smothered in a rich marinara sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s not only delicious but also healthy and completely plant-based. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking for a nutritious meal, this recipe is sure to impress!
Why Make This Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs
Choosing Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs means enjoying all the flavors and textures you love without meat or dairy. The lentils provide a fantastic source of protein and fiber, while the nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without any dairy. This dish is also budget-friendly and incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep. Plus, it’s a great way to get more veggies and whole foods into your meals.
How to Make Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs
Making Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs is straightforward and fun! You’ll start with perfectly cooked spaghetti, then create flavorful lentil meatballs that are crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside. You simply combine the ingredients, shape them into balls, and cook until golden. The marinara sauce ties everything together, creating a mouthwatering meal that’s rich in taste and texture.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces spaghetti
- 1 cup lentils, cooked
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Directions:
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, combine cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, onion, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into meatball shapes using your hands, about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter.
- In a pan over medium heat, lightly oil and cook meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour marinara sauce over the meatballs and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve the meatballs over spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56g
- Dietary Fiber: 12g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 15g
How to Serve Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs
This dish is versatile enough for any occasion! Serve it with a side salad for a light meal or add some garlic bread for a more indulgent feast. It’s perfect for casual weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Add some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or sprinkle some extra nutritional yeast on top for added flavor.
How to Store Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep the meatballs and spaghetti separate, this will help maintain their texture. You can also freeze the meatballs in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Expert Tips for Perfect Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs
- Ensure lentils are well-cooked but not mushy for the best texture.
- If the mixture is too wet, add more breadcrumbs to help it hold together.
- Experiment with different herbs or spices in your meatballs for added flavor. A tablespoon of miso paste can give an umami boost too.
- Use whole grain spaghetti for added fiber and nutrients.
Delicious Variations
- Swap lentils with black beans or chickpeas for a different protein source.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta and breadcrumbs.
- Add chopped spinach or other leafy greens to the meatball mixture for an extra nutrient kick.
- Experiment with different sauces, like pesto or Alfredo, for varied flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned lentils instead of cooked lentils?
Yes! Canned lentils can save time. Just rinse and drain them before using in the recipe.What can I use instead of nutritional yeast?
If you don’t have nutritional yeast, you can substitute it with grated vegan cheese or simply omit it for a less cheesy flavor.How do I prevent meatballs from falling apart while cooking?
Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly and allow the meatballs to rest for a few minutes before cooking. Using a non-stick pan can also help.
Conclusion
Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs offers a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional spaghetti dishes, packed with flavor and comfort. It’s simple to make and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend family dinner. Give this recipe a try, and delight in the satisfying combination of flavors and textures! We’d love to hear how yours turns out, so don’t hesitate to share your feedback or variations! Happy cooking!