Delicious Vegan Meatballs and Pasta with Tomato Sauce Recipe

In search of a hearty and satisfying vegan meal that even meat lovers will enjoy? 

Look no further! This recipe for vegan meatballs and pasta with tomato sauce is a flavor-packed delight that will leave you craving more. 

The combination of delicious plant-based meatballs, al dente pasta, and tangy tomato sauce will surely impress your taste buds. So, let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe!

Ingredients:

For the vegan meatballs:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1 cup cooked lentils (any variety)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds
• 3 tablespoons water
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
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For the tomato sauce:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the pasta:

• 12 ounces (340g) spaghetti or your favorite pasta variety
• Salt, for boiling water

Instructions:

Prepare the vegan meatballs:

In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked quinoa, cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, nutritional yeast, dried oregano, dried basil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

In a small bowl, mix together ground flaxseeds and water. Let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Add the flaxseed mixture to the large mixing bowl and mix well until all the ingredients are evenly combined.

Shape the mixture into small meatballs, approximately 1 inch in diameter.

Heat olive oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook until golden brown and crispy on all sides, turning gently. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the tomato sauce:

In a large saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and aromatic.

Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the sauce simmer for about 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Cook the pasta:

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Combine and serve:

Add the cooked vegan meatballs to the tomato sauce and stir gently to coat them evenly.

Place a serving of cooked pasta on a plate or in a bowl. Top it with a generous portion of the tomato sauce and vegan meatballs.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves or vegan Parmesan cheese if desired.

Serve hot and enjoy this delightful vegan meatballs and pasta with tomato sauce!

This vegan meatballs and pasta with tomato sauce recipe is a perfect choice for those seeking a delicious and satisfying plant-based meal. 

The flavorful vegan meatballs paired with tangy tomato sauce and perfectly cooked pasta will leave your taste buds craving more. 

So, gather the ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy this scrumptious vegan dish that will surely become a family favorite. 

Bon appétit!