Vegan Spaghettios Recipe

Relive the nostalgia of childhood comfort food with a wholesome and compassionate twist in this Vegan Spaghettios Recipe. This homemade version replaces the traditional canned variety with a plant-based rendition that’s bursting with flavor and free from animal products. Enjoy the delightful combination of tender pasta, rich tomato sauce, and plant-based “meatballs” that brings a smile to your face while aligning with your ethical and dietary choices.

Vegan Spaghettios Recipe: Servings: 4

Ingredients: For the Tomato Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the “Meatballs”:

• 1 cup cooked and cooled lentils (green or brown)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if preferred)
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Pasta:

• 8 ounces vegan spaghetti or pasta of choice

Instructions: For the Tomato Sauce:

1. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and add the dried oregano and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Adjust the seasonings as needed.

For the “Meatballs”:

1. In a food processor, combine the cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Pulse the mixture until it comes together but still has some texture. You don’t want it to be completely smooth.
3. Roll the mixture into small meatball-sized balls and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until the “meatballs” are firm and slightly browned.

For the Pasta:

1. Cook the vegan spaghetti or pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Assembling the Vegan Spaghettios:

1. In a large pot, combine the cooked pasta, tomato sauce, and baked “meatballs.” Gently stir to coat the pasta and “meatballs” with the sauce.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until everything is heated through.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: ~400
• Total Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Total Carbohydrates: 70g
• Dietary Fiber: 13g
• Sugars: 10g
• Protein: 18g