Vegetarian Ragu Recipe: Easy, Delicious, and Healthy Meals

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and entirely plant-based, this vegetarian ragu recipe is your new go-to. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prepping, this dish combines a medley of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and rich tomato sauce to create a satisfying sauce that pairs beautifully with pasta, polenta, or even crusty bread.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or simply aiming to eat more veggies, this ragu brings all the depth and warmth of a classic Italian meat sauce without any animal products.

Not only is this recipe delicious and nutritious, but it’s also incredibly versatile. You can easily tailor it to your pantry and preferences.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra vegetables for those who might be picky eaters. If you love experimenting with plant-based recipes, be sure to check out our Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners or our Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners for more inspiration.

Now, let’s dive into making this luscious vegetarian ragu!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian ragu is a celebration of fresh vegetables simmered slowly to develop deep, rich flavors reminiscent of traditional meat-based ragus. The addition of hearty mushrooms, lentils, and a splash of red wine (optional) brings umami and texture that will satisfy even the most devoted carnivores.

It’s also incredibly nourishing, full of fiber, vitamins, and plant-protein, making it a balanced meal on its own or a perfect complement to your favorite sides. Plus, the recipe is:

• Simple to prepare with common pantry staples
• Gluten-free if served with gluten-free pasta or polenta
• Easy to make ahead and freezes well for busy weeknights
• Customizable based on available vegetables and spices

With every spoonful, you’ll enjoy the warmth of a home-cooked meal that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, chopped
• 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup red wine (optional but recommended)
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Pasta or polenta, for serving

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board and sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or strainer (for rinsing lentils)
• Serving bowls or plates

Instructions

1. Prepare your vegetables: Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the carrots and celery. Chop the mushrooms into small pieces to mimic the texture of ground meat.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 6-8 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Add garlic and mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms begin to release their moisture and brown slightly.
4. Deglaze with red wine (optional): Pour in the red wine to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom. Let it simmer until the wine reduces by half, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add lentils and tomatoes: Stir in the lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Mix well to combine.
6. Season the sauce: Add the dried oregano, basil, smoked paprika, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
7. Simmer low and slow: Reduce heat to low, cover partially with a lid, and let the ragu simmer gently for 40-50 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Check lentils for tenderness; add more broth if the sauce thickens too much.
8. Final touches: Once lentils are tender and the sauce is thickened, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
9. Serve: Spoon the vegetarian ragu over your favorite cooked pasta, creamy polenta, or even roasted vegetables. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

For an even heartier texture, try adding finely chopped walnuts or toasted TVP (textured vegetable protein) to the ragu.

If you want to boost the protein content, substitute lentils with cooked chickpeas or add a handful of cooked quinoa near the end of cooking. Feel free to swap out mushrooms for eggplant or zucchini based on what you have on hand.

For a creamier twist, stir in a splash of vegan béchamel sauce just before serving. This adds a luscious texture that pairs wonderfully with pasta.

Prefer a slow cooker method? Simply sauté the veggies as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Check lentils for doneness and adjust seasoning before serving.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian ragu is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of bases. Here are some ideas to try:

• Serve over al dente spaghetti or penne for a classic Italian experience.
• Pour over creamy polenta for a comforting, gluten-free option.
• Top baked sweet potatoes or roasted winter squash for a hearty meal.
• Use as a filling for stuffed bell peppers or eggplants.
• Pair with garlic bread or homemade focaccia to soak up the rich sauce.

For extra indulgence, try topping with a sprinkle of vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast. Looking for more delicious vegetarian pasta ideas?

Check out our Vegetable Lasagna Stouffer’s Recipe Made Easy and Delicious or explore Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners to keep your meals exciting.

Conclusion

This vegetarian ragu recipe is a true testament to how plant-based meals can be just as rich, flavorful, and satisfying as traditional dishes. With a bounty of vegetables, wholesome lentils, and aromatic herbs, it promises a comforting dining experience that’s perfect for any season.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or prepping meals ahead, the slow-simmered goodness of this ragu will surely become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with the vegetables and seasoning to suit your taste. And if you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to explore other fantastic plant-based dishes like our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves or our Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating for wholesome, easy-to-make meals.

Happy cooking!

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