Spaghetti and Lentil Meatballs
54 min · 8 steps
Medium: 31–60 min or 7–12 steps
About this dish
Lentils and walnuts bound into balls, browned and simmered in a rich tomato sauce, then piled over spaghetti — a plant-based rework of the Italian-American classic.
Allergy Info
Gluten, Tree Nuts
Diet Info
Vegan
Ingredients
Fresh Produce
- Garlic clovescrushed, divided3
- Onionfinely diced1
Dairy & Eggs
- Vegan parmesanfinely grated, plus extra to serve40 g
Tins & Jars
- Cooked green lentilsdrained400 g
- Chopped Tomatoestwo 400 g tins800 g
- Tomato paste1 tbsp
Dried Goods
- Walnutsfinely chopped60 g
- Breadcrumbs60 g
- Ground Flaxseed1 tbsp
- spaghetti350 g
Spices & Seasonings
- dried oregano1 tsp
- Salt1 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepperto taste
Oils & Condiments
- Olive oil2 tbsp
Utensils
- Mixing bowl
- Frying pan
- Large pot
- Colander
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
Method
Mix the ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water in a small bowl and leave to thicken for 5 minutes.
Combine the lentils, walnuts, breadcrumbs, thickened flaxseed mixture, vegan parmesan, half the crushed garlic, salt and pepper in a bowl and mash together until it holds its shape, leaving some texture.
Roll the mixture into 16 balls.
Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat and brown the lentil balls for 6 minutes, turning gently and occasionally.
Add the diced onion and remaining garlic to the pan and cook for 4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste and dried oregano, bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, turning the balls gently occasionally, until the sauce has thickened.
Meanwhile, cook the spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the packet instructions, then drain.
Serve the lentil balls and sauce over the spaghetti with extra vegan parmesan.