Vegetable Bolognese
Try this Vegetable Bolognese recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Vegetable Bolognese recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 cup walnuts
- 1 tsp. dried oregano
- 1 tsp. salt
- 3 cloves garlic peeled
- 1 tsp. dried basil
- 3 pounds zucchini 2 to 3 inches in diameter - for making th
- 1 head of cauliflower broken into large florets
- 2 carrots, peeled
- 8 oz. crimini mushrooms cleaned and stems trimmed
- 1 medium yellow onion halved or quartered
- 2 28 oz. cans crushed tomatoes (i love the muir glen brand)
- 1/4 cup sundried tomatoes
- 2 t. nutritional yeast
- 1 tsp. maple syrup to taste
- Carbohydrate 11.9297769814979 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 12.4948062604024 g
- Fiber 4.68601116465616 g
- Protein 7.68977000446958 g
- Saturated Fat 0.742151847815276 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (374g)
- Sodium 77.8232118456747 mg
- Sugar 7.24376581684174 g
- Trans Fat 1.21946572321168 g
- Calories 174 calories
Step-by-step
- Place sundried tomatoes to soak in warm water while you prep the veggies.
- In a food processor, pulse or shred the cauliflower, carrots, mushrooms, onions, and garlic until they are all shredded or pulsed into very fine pieces.
- Add the shredded vegetables to a large, deep nonstick or cast iron skillet on medium-high heat.
- Sweat/saute the vegetables until they reduce in volume and the water is mostly cooked out.
- Grind the walnuts into a coarse meal using a food processor, and add to the skillet along with the salt, dried herbs, and nutritional yeast.
- Stir to combine and "bloom" the seasonings.
- Drain the sundried tomatoes from the soaking liquid and add to the food processor along with 1 can of crushed tomatoes.
- Puree until smooth, then add to the pan along with the second can of tomatoes.
- Taste for seasonings, and add 1 tsp. maple syrup if the sauce seems too acidic.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce to low, stirring occasionally for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and slightly reduced.
- While the sauce is simmering, prepare the "zoodles."
- Using a spiralizer or similar tool, julienne the zucchini into long noodle-like shapes.
- To prevent extra-long strands, pierce a sharp knife into the squash vertically along the length in 1 inch intervals. This will provide a stopping point for the blade and create shorter “zoodles.”
A Weeknight Wonder: My Go-To Vegetable Bolognese
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a constant juggling act. Between school runs, work deadlines, and family commitments, whipping up something elaborate is often out of the question. That's why I've developed a repertoire of quick, easy, and surprisingly satisfying recipes – and this Vegetable Bolognese is definitely a star player. It's packed with flavor, vibrant vegetables, and requires minimal fuss, making it perfect for those weeknights when time is of the essence.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. I often adapt it based on what's fresh and in season at the farmers' market. Sometimes I add bell peppers or eggplant for extra color and texture. Other times, I swap the zucchini noodles for a different pasta, or even serve it over a bed of quinoa for a heartier meal. The core ingredients remain the same, though – the rich tomato base, the earthy walnuts, and the aromatic herbs create a harmonious blend that's both comforting and satisfying. The secret weapon? Nutritional yeast! It adds a cheesy, umami depth that elevates the whole dish to a new level. No one would ever guess this is a completely plant-based meal!
This bolognese isn't just a quick weeknight dinner; it's also a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables for picky eaters. My kids, who usually turn their noses up at anything remotely green, gobble this up without complaint. The finely shredded vegetables melt into the sauce, creating a smooth and flavorful base that's more akin to a hearty, meaty sauce than a vegetable-heavy one. I often double the recipe and freeze half for those even busier weeks when even 30 minutes of cooking time feels like a luxury. Knowing I have a delicious, healthy meal waiting in the freezer is a tremendous weight off my shoulders.
One of the most rewarding aspects of cooking is sharing my recipes with others. This Vegetable Bolognese has become a staple in our household, and it’s a dish I often make for friends and family. The simplicity of the recipe makes it easy to scale up or down, making it perfect for everything from a cozy weeknight dinner for two to a larger gathering. It's a crowd-pleaser without the fuss, and it always receives rave reviews. The recipe is remarkably adaptable; feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own signature twist.
Beyond the Recipe: The preparation of this dish is a mini-meditation for me. Chopping the vegetables, the rhythmic whirring of the food processor, and the simmering sauce all contribute to a sense of calm in the midst of a busy day. It’s a small act of self-care amidst the chaos, a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. The aroma alone is enough to lift my spirits, promising a delicious and comforting meal to share with my family. This isn't just about nourishing my family; it's about nourishing my soul as well.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Don't overcook the vegetables: Aim for a tender-crisp texture to retain their vibrancy and nutrients.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize the flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: This bolognese tastes even better the next day, making it a perfect meal-prep option.
- Serve it in various ways: Enjoy it over zucchini noodles, regular pasta, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice.
Ultimately, this Vegetable Bolognese is more than just a recipe; it’s a testament to the power of simple, wholesome food to bring joy and nourishment to our lives. It's a recipe that’s easily adaptable to various dietary needs and preferences, and it’s a dish that I can confidently recommend to anyone seeking a quick, healthy, and delicious meal option.
So, the next time you're short on time but craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner, give this Vegetable Bolognese a try. I guarantee it will become a new family favorite – and maybe even a little bit of a lifesaver on those hectic weeknights.
