Eat Well Recipe: Lentil-Walnut "Bolognese" on Butternut Noodles [Lunch]
This recipe replaces traditional pasta with nutrient-dense squash and fibre-rich legumes, creating a savoury meal that supports heart health and blood sugar management.
Lentil-Walnut "Bolognese" on Butternut Noodles
Ingredients
- Base: 1 large butternut squash (spiralled into "noodles").
- Bolognese: 1 cup cooked brown lentils, ½ cup crushed walnuts, 1 jar (16 oz) low-sodium marinara or crushed tomatoes.
- Aromatics: 1 small onion (diced), 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tsp dried oregano.
- Fats: 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil.
- Garnish: Fresh basil and a sprinkle of hemp seeds.
Instructions & Method
- Prepare the Sauce: In a large pan, sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add the walnuts and lentils, stirring for 2 minutes to toast the nuts.
- Simmer: Pour in the tomatoes and oregano. Simmer on low for 10–15 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Prepare Squash: In a separate skillet, lightly sauté the butternut squash noodles with a splash of water for 3–5 minutes until "al dente." Avoid overcooking to prevent sogginess.
- Assemble: Plate the squash noodles and ladle a generous portion of the lentil-walnut bolognese over the top. Garnish with fresh basil.
Tips for Success & Diabetes Prevention
- Glycemic Load: Swapping grain-based pasta for butternut squash significantly reduces the carbohydrate load and adds Vitamin A.
- Walnut Benefits: Walnuts provide Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for reducing the inflammation often associated with insulin resistance.1
- Fibre Satiety: Lentils are high in soluble fibre; this slows down digestion and the entry of glucose into the bloodstream, preventing post-meal spikes.2
- Watch the Sauce: When buying pre-made marinara, ensure there is "no added sugar" on the label, as many commercial brands are hidden sources of sweeteners.
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