CURRIED LENTIL PASTA

CURRIED LENTIL PASTA

Curried Lentil Pasta fuses the comfort of traditional pasta with the warming spices of Indian-inspired cuisine, resulting in a creamy, nourishing bowl with a global twist. Red lentils provide a protein-packed base, while a splash of coconut milk adds a rich and silky texture. A pinch of curry powder lifts the flavour profile without overpowering, creating a harmonious blend of earthy, spicy and savoury notes. Garlic deepens the base, and the dish comes together in just minutes using staple pantry ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something comforting with a hint of exotic flair. Whether served on its own or paired with a side of greens or flatbread, this vegan pasta dish is both hearty and wholesome. Ideal for batch cooking and versatile enough for variation, it’s a simple and satisfying addition to any plant-based rotation.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Dinner

SERVING SIZE

1

CUISINE

American

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

Boil, Sauté, Simmer

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Winter, Fall, Potluck, Family Reunion

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Vegan, Healthy, High Fibre, Quick & Easy, Low Cholesterol

DISH TYPE

Pasta

INGREDIENTS

There are the following ingredients for Curried Lentil Pasta:

• 1 cup cooked pasta

• ½ cup cooked red lentils

• ¼ tsp curry powder

• 1 tbsp coconut milk

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• Optional garnish: chopped coriander, lemon zest, or red chilli flakes

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories:5 kcal

• Protein:5 g

• Carbohydrates: 107 g

• Fibre:8 g

• Sugars:8 g

• Fat:9 g

• Saturated Fat:3 g

• Sodium:6 mg

• Calcium: 9 mg

• Iron: 9 mg

• Potassium:8 mg

PREPARATION

These steps are followed for the preparation of Curried Lentil Pasta:

• Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

• Sauté Garlic: In a pan over medium heat, add a splash of water or a touch of oil and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.

• Add Lentils And Spices: Stir in cooked red lentils and curry powder. Mix well to coat the lentils with the spice.

• Pour In Coconut Milk: Add the coconut milk and stir to create a creamy sauce. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to thicken slightly.

• Combine And Season: Add the cooked pasta to the pan, stirring to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

• Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with optional toppings like coriander or chilli flakes. Serve hot.

PREP TIME

5 minutes

COOKING TIME

15 minutes

TIPS

Here are some helpful tips for Curried Lentil Pasta:

• Use Pre-Cooked Lentils: Speeds up the cooking process. Canned or freshly prepared both work.

• Balance The Curry: Start with ¼ tsp and add more if a more pungent spice flavour is desired.

• Creaminess Control: Adjust the coconut milk quantity to make a more decadent or lighter sauce.

• Pasta Pairing: Use short pasta shapes to help trap the lentil sauce for better texture.

VARIATIONS

• Add Veggies: Toss in peas, chopped carrots, or spinach for added nutrition and colour.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish coeliac-friendly.

• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or a splash of hot sauce for heat lovers.

• Protein Boost: Stir in diced tofu or chickpeas for even more plant-based protein.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Fridge Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen the sauce.

• Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Defrost and reheat thoroughly before serving.

• Meal Prep Tip: Prepare lentils and pasta ahead of time to save minutes on busy days.