Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthy and Hearty: Walnuts provide a rich, meaty texture that mimics ground beef while offering heart-healthy fats and protein.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and the umami from soy sauce creates a deeply flavorful sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious bolognese ready in under an hour.
Customizable: Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite vegetables to make this recipe your own.

Ingredients

2 cups walnuts, finely chopped
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
¼ cup vegetable broth (or more if needed)
Salt and pepper, to taste
400g pasta of choice (spaghetti or penne works well)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese or a vegan alternative, for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

1. Toast the Walnuts

Begin by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped walnuts and toast them lightly for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. Cook the Vegetables

In the same skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil. Add the diced onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until aromatic.
Add the diced carrots, celery, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the veggies start to soften.

3. Make the Sauce

Incorporate the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, dried basil, oregano, and smoked paprika into the veggie mix. Stir well to combine.
Pour in the vegetable broth and return the toasted walnuts to the skillet. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.

4. Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook the pasta in a separate pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

5. Finish the Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened, season with salt and pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, you can add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency.

6. Serve

Serve the pasta topped with the Walnut Bolognese sauce, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a vegan alternative if desired.

Notes

Pasta Options: Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer. Spaghetti, penne, and rigatoni all work well with this sauce.
Make It Spicy: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.
Vegan Option: Use a vegan Parmesan or omit the cheese altogether for a dairy-free version.
Extra Veggies: Feel free to add in extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to increase the nutrition and flavor.

Storing and Reheating

Storage: Leftover Walnut Bolognese can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, or microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Yes, you can use pecans, cashews, or almonds for a different texture and flavor.

2. Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, you can freeze the Walnut Bolognese sauce for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to an airtight container for freezing.

3. Can I add meat to this recipe?

If you prefer a meat-based sauce, you can add ground beef or turkey to the sauce in place of some of the walnuts for a more traditional bolognese.

4. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.

Conclusion

Walnut Bolognese is a rich and hearty sauce that brings a delightful twist to your traditional pasta dishes. The walnuts add a satisfying texture while the vegetables and spices provide layers of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this flavorful dish is sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious meal that everyone will love!