Vegetarian Spaghetti and Meatballs: A Delicious Twist on an Italian Classic

Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic Italian dish that’s loved by many, but what if you’re a vegetarian? Don’t worry—this vegetarian version of spaghetti and meatballs will satisfy your cravings without any meat. With hearty plant-based meatballs and a flavorful marinara sauce, this dish is both comforting and satisfying. Here’s how to make it!

Ingredients:

For the Vegetarian Meatballs:

• 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for vegan, substitute with vegan cheese)
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseeds mixed with 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil (for frying)

For the Marinara Sauce:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 tsp sugar (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

For the Spaghetti:

• 400 grams spaghetti (use gluten-free pasta if needed)
• Salt for boiling water

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetarian Meatballs

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, flax egg (flaxseeds and water), onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix everything thoroughly until it forms a dough-like consistency. If it feels too dry, add a splash of water; if too wet, add more breadcrumbs.
4. Shape the mixture into small meatballs (about 1 inch in diameter) and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and firm to the touch. Optionally, you can also pan-fry them in olive oil for a crispy texture, but baking gives a healthier result.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinara Sauce

1. While the meatballs are baking, make the marinara sauce. Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and sugar (if using). Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove from heat once the sauce has thickened and developed a rich flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Spaghetti

1. While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions (usually 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain the pasta, reserving a little pasta water for adjusting the sauce later if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

1. Once the meatballs are ready, add them to the marinara sauce and let them simmer for a few more minutes so they absorb the sauce.
2. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and meatballs, tossing gently to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
3. Serve the spaghetti and meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese (optional).

Tips and Variations:

• Vegan Version: Skip the Parmesan cheese and use nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a vegan option.
• Additional Veggies: You can add finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini to the meatball mixture for added nutrients.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce if you like a little heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and spaghetti for a completely gluten-free version of the dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Hearty and filling: The lentil-based meatballs provide plenty of protein and fiber, making this dish just as satisfying as the traditional version.
• Comforting and delicious: The combination of homemade marinara sauce and crispy, savory meatballs is always a winning combination.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is easy to prepare for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Conclusion:

Vegetarian spaghetti and meatballs is a fantastic dish that’s full of flavor, satisfying, and easy to make. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking for a meatless meal, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds. It’s the perfect balance of hearty, savory, and comforting—just like the classic, but with a plant-based twist!