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Vegan Bolognese Sauce

Vegan Bolognese Sauce

This Vegan Bolognese Sauce is a hearty, comfort food that satisfies cravings while being entirely plant-based.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Cozy Dinners
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Base
  • 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil to create a flavorful foundation for your sauce.
  • 2 medium carrots diced, for natural sweetness and color.
  • 2 stalks celery diced, to add crunch and a depth of flavor.
  • 1 large sweet onion diced, to provide aromatic sweetness.
  • 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more to taste), enhances overall flavor.
  • 4 cloves garlic minced, to infuse the sauce with delicious aroma.
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flake (optional), for a little heat if desired.
For the Sauce
  • 28 ounces Canned tomatoes (crushed or diced), the star ingredient bringing richness to your Vegan Bolognese Sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons Dried oregano for that classic Italian herb flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme adding earthy notes.
For Protein and Creaminess
  • 1 can Canned chickpeas drained, offering a hearty protein boost.
  • 1 cup Cooked lentils tying the sauce together with nutritious goodness.
  • 1 cup Raw cashews (soaked if desired), for a creamy texture that’ll make you forget it’s vegan.
  • 1/2 cup Water (adjust for thickness), to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Long cut dry pasta (like linguini or spaghetti), the perfect vehicle for your rich sauce.

Equipment

  • Large pan

Method
 

How to Make Vegan Bolognese Sauce
  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. This will create a flavorful base for your sauce as it warms up.
  2. Add the diced carrots, celery, and onion to the pan. Sauté them until softened, about 5-7 minutes, letting their colors brighten and aromas fill your kitchen.
  3. Stir in the sea salt, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the garlic to become fragrant and the flavors to meld together.
  4. Add the canned tomatoes, oregano, thyme, chickpeas, lentils, cashews, and water. Stir to combine, creating a rich and hearty mixture that’s packed with flavor.
  5. Simmer the mixture for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You'll know it’s ready when the flavors meld beautifully, and the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, ready to be enveloped by that luscious sauce.
  7. Serve the sauce over the cooked pasta, ensuring each strand is generously coated for maximum flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 12gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 1500IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 70mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Optional: Garnish with fresh basil for an extra pop of flavor! For best results, cook your pasta al dente according to package instructions, so it holds up well when combined with the sauce.

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