Description

Walnut Bolognese is a hearty, vegetarian twist on the classic pasta sauce, featuring toasted walnuts, fresh vegetables, and rich tomato flavors. This savory dish is perfect for those seeking a healthy and satisfying alternative to traditional meat-based bolognese.

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)

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Instructions

Toast the Walnuts: In a large skillet over medium heat, toast the walnuts for 3-5 minutes until fragrant, then set aside.
Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the diced onions for 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute. Then add carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
Make the Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, soy sauce, basil, oregano, and smoked paprika to the vegetables. Stir well, add vegetable broth, and return the walnuts to the skillet. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until thickened.
Cook the Pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Finish the Sauce: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the thickness with more broth if needed.
Serve: Top the pasta with Walnut Bolognese sauce and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan (or vegan alternative) if desired.

Notes

Pasta Options: Use any pasta type such as spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni.

Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Vegan Option: Use vegan Parmesan or omit cheese for a dairy-free dish.

Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms or spinach for more flavor and nutrition.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 400
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 21g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 5mg