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pasta

Farmhouse Lasagne

February 22, 2021 | Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Pork recipes, Red Meat, Freezable Meals

This Farmhouse Lasagne is not a quick meal to make but it does my family two good sized serves so that means I get a night off coking which is always a good thing! It’s is a hearty, nourishing meal perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead for easy weeknight dinners. Packed with layers of rich, delicious meat and vegetable sauce and creamy bรฉchamel, itโ€™s a comforting classic thatโ€™s sure to be a family favourite.

Using the Thermomix or a food processor to do the grating and chopping is a huge time saver for this recipe. This is very versatile so feel free to switch up any of the veggies, or you could even sub the mince for chicken or turkey.

Health benefits

Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade lasagne is free from preservatives, additives and damaging vegetable oils. By using high-quality meats, veggies, and homemade sauces, youโ€™re getting a really nutrient-dense meal filled with protein, vitamins, and healthy fats. Plus, by swapping out processed sauces with homemade options, you avoid unnecessary sugars and artificial ingredients, making it a much healthier alternative.

Ingredients

This easy lasagne combines simple, wholesome ingredients like ground beef mince, pork mince, a variety of fresh veggies, rich tomato passata, and a creamy bรฉchamel made with wholemeal spelt flour. Itโ€™s a recipe that sticks to whole foods while delivering incredible flavour and texture. You only need to check out the comments below to see this is the best lasagna recipe!

How to make this farmhouse lasagne

To make this classic lasagne recipe, in a large pot or large skillet, saute the garlic, onion, and celery until soft, then add the pork and beef mince and cook until browned. Add the herbs, wine, veggies, stock, and tomato passata, and let it simmer to develop rich flavours. While the meat sauce is simmering, prepare your creamy bรฉchamel sauce. Once both are ready, take a baking dish and layer the lasagna noodles with the meat sauce and bรฉchamel, topping it off with extra cheese (cheddar or parmesan cheese). Bake until golden and bubbly, and enjoy! If you own a Thermomix, we’ve also included Thermomix instructions for this recipe.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve your lasagne with a fresh side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. This dish is perfect for meal preppingโ€”it can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or store in the freezer for a quick and easy dinner later. Just reheat in the oven until heated through. If I’m cooking this for two separate meals I assemble the lasagne in two dishes – one casserole dish to eat that night, and a rectangular pyrex or glass lock that I can cook it in, allow to cool, pop the lid on and freeze for another day. Thaw in the fridge, remove the lid and reheat in a moderate oven. If the top browns too much you can cover with baking paper then aluminum foil.

Vary this farmhouse lasagne to suit your dietary needs

You can easily adapt this farmhouse lasagne to suit different dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, swap the lasagne sheets for gluten-free ones and use a mix of buckwheat and rice flour in the bรฉchamel. For a dairy-free option, try a cauliflower-based sauce with nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavour. You can also reduce the meat by substituting pork with cooked lentils for a plant-based boost.

Take a look at the variations below the main recipes to adjust the recipe to suit your dietary requirements and taste.


For more delicious, easy to make healthy lasagne recipes, click HERE.

This Farmhouse Lasagne is a great meal to create two good sized serves. Really versatile to switch up any of the veggies or protein.
Print Recipe
4.71 from 24 votes

Farmhouse Lasagne

This Farmhouse Lasagne is not a quick meal to make but it does my family two good sized serves so that means I get a night off! Super versatile so feel free to switch up any of the veggies, or you could even sub the mince for chicken or turkey.
Prep Time30 minutes mins
Cook Time1 hour hr 40 minutes mins
Total Time2 hours hrs 10 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Servings: 8
Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

  • 60 ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 clove/s garlic โ€“ minced
  • 2 onion/s โ€“ diced
  • 3 stick/s celery โ€“ finely diced
  • 500 g free-range pork mince
  • 1000 g beef mince
  • 1 tsp dried thyme – or (1 tbsp) fresh
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary leaves – or (1 tsp) dried
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 125 ml red wine
  • 150 g mushrooms – roughly diced
  • 2 carrot/s – large, finely diced
  • 1 zucchini/s – large, finely diced
  • 250 ml chicken broth or stock (can also use beef)
  • 680 g tomato passata (puree)
  • 1 tsp sea salt – or to taste
  • ground black pepper – to taste
  • 700 g lasagne sheets – approx.

Bรฉchamel

  • 150 g cheddar cheese โ€“ or parmesan
  • 40 g butter
  • 50 g wholemealย speltย flour
  • 200 ml chicken broth or stock
  • 200 ml milk (of choice)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper โ€“ to taste
Metric – US Customary

Instructions

  • Heat the oil in a large pan and add the garlic, onion and celery. Saute over a moderated heat with the lid on for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want to sweat the veggies, not brown them.
  • Add the pork and beef mince and continue to cook, stirring until cooked through and most of the liquid has gone.
  • Add the herbs.
  • Turn the heat to high and add the red wine so it sizzles and reduces.
  • Add the mushrooms, carrot, zucchini, broth, passata and seasoning.
  • Reduce to a simmer for 1 hour with the lid slightly ajar.
  • Meanwhile grate the cheese and make the bechemel.
  • Melt the butter in a small pot. Add the flour and mix to combine to a paste.
  • Now gradually add the milk and stock or broth, stirring as you go. I usually add about a ยผ cup at a time and once it heats and thickens, add more. Be patient here. Mix in about quarter of the cheese once the sauce has thickened nicely.
  • Set aside until the meat sauce has cooked. When meat has approximately 10 minutes to go, preheat your oven to 180ยฐC/350ยฐF (fan-forced).
  • To assemble, alternate layers of the meat and lasagne sheets finishing with a layer of the bechamel and the remaining cheese.
  • I always assemble this into two baking dishes, bake and then keep one for another night or to freeze.
  • Bake for 20 – 40 minutes or until the lasagne is cooked through. Fresh pasta cooks quickly, dried sheets will take longer (and the time will vary a lot between brands so check your sheets feel soft when cut before serving).

Thermomix

  • Chop the garlic, 5 seconds, speed 5. Next chop the celery and onion, 10 seconds, speed 4.
  • Heat the oil in a large pan and add the garlic, celery and onion. Saute over a moderated heat with the lid on for 10 mins, stirring occasionally. You want to sweat the veggies, not brown them.
  • Add the pork and beef mince and continue to cook, stirring until almost cooked through and most of the liquid has gone.
  • Add the herbs.
  • Turn the heat to high and add the red wine so it sizzles and reduces.
  • Chop the mushrooms, 3 seconds, speed 4. Chop the carrot and zucchini, 5 seconds speed 4.
  • Then add the rest of the ingredients to the pan, stir and reduce to a simmer for 1 hour with the lid ajar. When meat has approximately 10 minutes to go, preheat your oven to 180ยฐC/350ยฐF (fan-forced).
  • Rinse the Thermomix, dry with a paper towel, and make the bechemel.
  • Grate the cheese, 10 seconds, speed 6 and set aside.
  • Add the butter, flour, broth and milk into the bowl and cook, 10 minutes, 90, speed 4, MC on.
  • Once the bechamel has thickened, season with a pinch of salt and a grind of black pepper and mix in a quarter of the cheese. Thermomix, 10 seconds, speed 5.
  • To assemble, alternate layers of the meat and lasagne sheets finishing with a layer of the bechamel and the remaining cheese.
  • Bake for 30 – 45 minutes or until the lasagne is cooked through.

Notes

Reduce the meat

Replace the pork with one can (or cup) of cooked brown lentils.

Gluten-free

Chose gluten-free lasagne sheets. replace the spelt flour in the bechamel with gluten-free flour (I like a mix of buckwheat and rice flours 50/50).

Dairy-free cheese sauce

Steam half a large head of cauliflower, then puree with a tablespoon of nutritional yeast, a generous pinch of sea salt and pepper and a splash of almond milk to achieve a Bรฉchamel consistency (thick sauce). Top with grated vegan cheese.
Another option is this Dairy-free Bรฉchamel Sauceโ€“ increase the servings to match the volume of milk and stock required for your meal.

Onion and Garlic-free

Replace both with finely diced fennel sautรฉed with a pinch of cumin and chilli powder.

Make your own pasta sheets

If you have the time, making your own pasta sheets is fun and gives an extra special level of deliciousness! Click HERE for the recipe! You will need to reduce the liquid a little since this is fresh pasta.
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A great meal to make ahead for those evenings where you don’t feel like cooking.ย  Let me know how you enjoyed this recipe in the comments below.

Tuna Pasta Bake

November 9, 2020 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Fish & Seafood, Members only

This Tuna Pasta Bake recipe is a very adaptable family meal. I love having a tasty tuna recipe to go to as it’s a sure-fire option when I’ve forgotten to get meat out of the freezer! This recipe could also be considered a Mornay since it has a cheesy white sauce, but there are a…

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Slow Cooked Beef Ragu

October 12, 2020 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Red Meat, Freezable Meals, Slow Cooked, Members only

This slow cooked Beef Ragu is a delicious, easy meal. My family call it fancy or ‘real spag bol’ after a trip to Italy when they were little made them experts in Italian cuisine. Interestingly, the main difference between ragu and bolognese is the ratio of meat to sauce. Ragu is a meat-based sauce while…

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Broccolini Macadamia Chilli Spaghetti

June 8, 2020 | 30 Minute Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Vegetarian, Members only

This Broccolini Macadamia Chilli Spaghetti is a simple vegetarian pasta that is quick and easy to make and a really tasty, healthy meal thatโ€™s perfect for a meat-free Monday. Broccolini is coming into season now, so it’s a great time to enjoy this simple, light meal.ย  Health benefits This dish is packed with nutritious ingredients….

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Green Eggs and Ham Pasta Cups

June 1, 2020 | 30 Minute Meals, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Pork recipes, Freezable Meals, Vegetarian, Healthy Lunchbox, After School Snacks, Members only

This Green Eggs and Ham Pasta Cups recipe is a delicious one handed snack with a whole load of nourishment. Greens are often hard to get kids to accept, so a power pesto like the one below combined with a universally loved food (pasta) is very often enough to convert green skeptics. Throw in a…

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Vegan Mac ‘n Cheese

May 11, 2020 | Budget Friendly, 30 Minute Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Vegetarian, After School Snacks, Members only

This super delicious Vegan Mac ‘n Cheese is incredibly creamy and remarkably (fake) mac ‘n cheese-like according to my kids. It’s super easy to make and using nutritious plant based ingredients, this will surely become a family favourite. Made with a blend of cashews, butternut pumpkin, and a mix of savory spices, it’s the perfect…

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Thyme Mushroom Pasta

April 20, 2020 | Budget Friendly, 30 Minute Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Vegetarian, Members only

This Mushroom Thyme Pasta is one of my favourite vegetarian mid-week meals. Itโ€™s quick and easy to make and really tasty. You can make it with any kind of mushrooms, but I like a mix of shiitake, oyster, and field or Swiss brown mushrooms. Really anything you can get your hands on.ย  During the winter…

This content is for members only โ€“ but right now, you can unlock it all with 80% off your first 3 months! Get instant access to 1,200+ healthy, delicious recipes, customisable meal plans, shopping lists, ad-free browsing, live chat with a naturopath, and our easy-to-use app. No contracts. Cancel anytime.

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Pastitsio

April 8, 2020 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Red Meat, Freezable Meals, Vegetarian

This is my healthy take on a Greek lasagna classic, Pastitsio. Instead of a cheesy bรฉchamel sauce, itโ€™s topped with a much lighter blend of yoghurt, tahini and parmesan cheese.ย  It can also be made with beef mince (ground beef) if you prefer, but personally prefer to use lamb mince. This dish is a Mediterranean-inspired comfort food, perfect for family meals or gatherings, combining warming spices and wholesome ingredients.

Health benefits

With protein-rich lamb, nutrient-dense veggies, and Greek yoghurt, Pastitsio provides iron, fibre, calcium and essential vitamins. The use of olive oil and spinach further enhances its healthy and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Ingredients

Traditional spices like cinnamon, oregano, and mixed spice flavour the lamb sauce, which is then layered with a creamy topping made from yoghurt, tahini, and Parmesan. Pasta binds the layers together, creating a savoury, filling meal.

How to make this healthy pastitsio recipe

To make this Greek pastitsion recipe, sautรฉ onions and garlic cloves, then brown the ground lamb with spices. Add tomato passata, veggies, and broth, simmering to meld flavours. Cook the pasta, combine it with the meat sauce, and transfer to a baking dish. Blend the topping ingredients, pour over the pasta, and finish with Parmesan and pine nuts before baking.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve with fresh parsley and a leafy salad for balance. Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer in an airtight container, reheating in a low oven. This dish also works well for prep ahead meal prep.

Vary this healthy pastitsioย to suit your dietary needs

This dish is already gluten-free if using the rice quinoa pasta. For dairy-free, swap the topping with a dairy-free bechamel and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan. Go vegetarian by substituting lentils for lamb. Make it nut-free by omitting the pine nuts, and adjust the veggies based on whatโ€™s in your fridge!

Take a look at the variations (below the main recipe) for suggestions to alter the recipe to suit any specific dietary requirements.


For more easy to make, delicious heathy meal recipes, click HERE.

A healthier and lighter take on a Greek classic Pastitsio. Instead of a rich cheesy sauce, itโ€™s topped with a much lighter blend of yoghurt, tahini and parmesan cheese.ย 
Print Recipe
4.91 from 22 votes

Pastitsio

A healthier and lighter take on a Greek classic Pastitsio. Instead of a rich cheesy sauce, itโ€™s topped with a much lighter blend of yoghurt, tahini and parmesan cheese.ย 
Prep Time20 minutes mins
Cook Time40 minutes mins
Total Time1 hour hr
Course: Main Course
Servings: 6
Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil - extra virgin
  • 1 red onion/s - diced
  • 4 clove/s garlic - diced
  • 600 g lamb mince
  • 1 ยฝ tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1 tsp mixedย spice
  • 1 bay leaf/s
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 60 ml red wine
  • 1 zucchini/s - diced into 1 cm pieces
  • 2 carrot/s - diced into 1 cm pieces
  • 700 g tomato passata (puree)
  • 125 ml chicken broth or stock
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper - or to taste
  • 30 g baby spinach - chopped (1 cup)
  • 250 g rice quinoa penne pasta (or any pasta that suits)

Topping

  • 1 clove/s garlic
  • 500 g natural, Greek or coconut yoghurt - or greek yoghurt (2 cups)
  • 2 tbsp hulled tahiniย 
  • 1 egg/s
  • 1 tsp sea salt
  • ground black pepper
  • 25 g parmesan cheese - grated (ยผ cup)
  • 2 tbsp pinenuts
  • ยผ bunch/s fresh parsley leaves - approx. 1 handful, finely chopped
Metric - US Customary

Instructions

  • Heat the olive oil over a medium heat and add the onion. Sautรฉ for a couple of minutes.
  • Add the garlic and lamb mince, sautรฉ to brown the mince.
  • Add the cinnamon, mixed spice, bay leaf and oregano and cook for a minute until you smell their fragrance.
  • Turn the heat up to high and add the red wine (it should sizzle and reduce quickly and remove the alcohol).
  • Reduce the heat and add the tomato passata, broth, zucchini, carrots and seasoning.
  • Cover and simmer with the lid ajar for 15-20 minutes.
  • Pre-heat you oven to 180ยฐC/ 350ยฐF fan-forced.
  • While the sauce is simmering, boil the penne.
  • Once it is almost cooked, drain and rinse the pasta and mix in with the sauce and the baby spinach.
  • Place into an oven proof serving dish.
  • In a food processor or by hand, grate cheese and set aside.
  • Then blend the garlic, yoghurt, tahini, sea salt, pepper and egg on a low speed to just combine.
  • Pour this over the sauce/ pasta mix, top with the grated parmesan and pine nuts.
  • Bake for 10-15 mins or until the cheese is melted and the top is browned.

Serve

  • Sprinkle with the chopped parsley leaves and serve with a green, leafy salad.

Thermomix

  • I chop the onion and garlic in the Thermomix but cook it all in a pan. I find it cooks better that way, not as sloppy as cooking in the Thermomix. I then use it to grate the cheese and make the topping sauce.

Store

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer.

Make ahead

  • Re-heat in a low oven until just hot.

Notes

Dairy Free

Make two cups of this Dairy-free Bechamel Sauce to replace the yoghurt. Replace the Parmesan cheese with a generous sprinkling of nutritional yeast flakes and a little bit of salt.

Onion and garlic-free

Replace the onion with a small fennel bulb and the garlic a pinch of chilli flakes.

Vegetarian

Replace the mince with 2 cans of brown lentils (drained and rinsed). Choose vegetable broth.ย 

Nut-free

Omit the pine nuts.ย 

Wine free

Replace the wine with broth or stock (and a tsp of vinegar).

Different vegetables

Feel free to switch up the veggies to suit your supplies and tastes.
ย 
ย 

I'd love to hear how you like this recipe. Post a comment below and rate this recipe, thanks so much.ย 

Tuna Tomato Penne (one pot)

April 1, 2020 | Budget Friendly, 30 Minute Meals, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Fish & Seafood, Vegetarian, Members only

This Tuna Tomato Penne (in one pot) is a delicious, healthy easy to make meal. You don’t have to pre-cook the pasta which makes for one less thing to wash up. I also love the consistency of the sauce when the pasta is cooked in it. Best of all this can be easily varied to…

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Fresh Tomato Olive Basil Spaghetti

March 16, 2020 | 30 Minute Meals, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Vegetarian, Members only, Side dishes

This delicious Fresh Tomato Olive Basil Spaghetti is perfect for a simple dinner or light lunch. Itโ€™s reallyย quick and easy to make, literally in the time it takes to boil pasta, you have a meal on the table. It can be served at room temperature or chilled as a pasta salad. When I was a…

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Kale Pesto Penne

May 23, 2018 | 30 Minute Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Vegetarian

Each week I try to rotate the veggies I buy because I really do believe that variety is such a great way to ensure our nutritional needs are met. I also make sure a good part of what I buy is green and leafy. Leafy green vegetables have more nutrients per calorie than any other food, and this Kale Pesto Penne is one of my favourite ways to pack them in. Forget fancy and expensive โ€˜superโ€™ foods – leafy greens like kale are as nourishing as it gets.

Kale isnโ€™t one of my familyโ€™s favourite greens, but that just makes me more determined to find a delicious way for them to enjoy it, and this pasta hits the mark. As itโ€™s in season right now in the southern hemisphere, itโ€™s a great time to try this nourishing meal.

Health benefits

Kale’s high level of nutrients (both vitamins and minerals) coupled with many potent, immune enhancing and anti-inflammatory phyto (plant) chemicals, results in much-needed virus protection at this time of year. I believe consuming greens daily during winter (when they are in season), is a key factor in preventing colds and flu. Nature, as always, provides.

The combination of the quinoa and rice in the pasta along with the almonds forms a complete vegetarian protein too making this a nutritionally balanced, vegetarian meal.

Ingredients

This kale pesto pasta features fresh kale, cloves garlic, parmesan cheese, almonds, basil, lemon, olive oil, and rice quinoa penne pasta, creating a dish thatโ€™s both delicious and nutritious.

How to make this kale pesto penne

Start by separating the kale leaves from the stems and chopping the stems finely. Boil the stems until tender and set aside. Cook the penne pasta in a pot of boiling water until al dente. Prepare the pesto by blending garlic, parmesan, toasted almonds, basil, cooked kale stems, lemon zest and juice, and olive oil in a food processor until it forms a coarse paste. Sautรฉ the kale leaves in olive oil and water until just wilted, then toss with the cooked pasta, pesto, and remaining toasted almonds.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve this dish warm, garnished with freshly grated parmesan or a sprinkle of crushed almonds for added texture. It pairs beautifully with a side of mixed greens or a tomato salad. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days and reheat gently on the stove.

Vary this kale pesto penne to suit your dietary needs

For a nut-free option, substitute the almonds with toasted sunflower seeds. You can also sub the almonds with walnuts or pine nuts if you prefer. To make the dish gluten-free, use your favourite gluten-free penne pasta. For a dairy-free or vegan variation, replace the parmesan with nutritional yeast and sea salt. Enhance the dish with additional vegetables like cherry tomatoes, broccoli, or sautรฉed mushrooms. If desired, add cooked chicken or tuna for extra protein, though this will make the dish non-vegetarian.


For more delicious, easy to make healthy pasta recipes, click HERE.

Try this Kale Pesto Penne! A healthy & tasty dish that is easy, versatile, & perfect for the whole family!
Print Recipe
5 from 8 votes

Kale Pesto Penne

This dish I developed out of wanting to include the nourishing stems of the kale in a meal. I often save them to add to bone broth but I wanted another option... and so this delicious, nutritious pasta was born. 
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Cook Time15 minutes mins
Total Time30 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Servings: 4
Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

  • 5 stem/s kale -washed well
  • 2 clove/s garlic -peeled
  • 50 g parmesan cheese (approx.)
  • 140 g raw almonds (1 cup) toasted
  • ยผ bunch/s fresh basil leaves
  • 1 lemon/s (small) juice and zest
  • 60 ml extra virgin olive oil (ยผ cup) -extra virgin
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper -to taste
  • 250 g rice quinoa penne pasta
  • 30 ml extra virgin olive oil -(2 tbsp) plus 1 tbsp water (extra)

Instructions

  • Start with stripping the leaves off the kale stems, tearing them into small pieces and finely chopping the remaining kale stems.
  • Bring 2 cups of water to the boil in a large pot and boil the chopped stems (not the leaves) for 5 minutes (or until they have softened). Strain and set aside.
  • Refill the pot with water and bring to the boil. Once boiling, cook your penne until al dente.
  • Meanwhile make the pesto.
  • In a food processor, chop the garlic. If using a Thermomix 5 sec, speed 7.
  • Add the parmesan and process until finely grated.ย If using a Thermomix 10 sec, speed 7.
  • Add half of the almonds and pulse until finely chopped.ย If using a Thermomix pulse approx. 3 times.
  • Add the basil, cooked kale stems, lemon juice and zest, olive oil and pepper and pulse until it forms a course pesto.ย If using a Thermomix pulse approx. 3-4 times.
  • Once the pasta is cooked, strain it and return the pan to a moderate heat. Add the extra 2 tablespoons olive oil and water and then add the kale leaves. Sautรฉ stirring constantly until it is just wilted (but not browned).
  • Once they are wilted, return the pasta, pesto, remaining toasted almonds to the pot and stir to combine over a low heat.
  • Serve immediately.

Store

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

Nut-free

Substitute the almonds with toasted sunflower seeds.

Gluten-free

Choose a gluten-free penne (I love rice and quinoa pasta).

Dairy-free and vegan

Replace the parmesan with nutritional yeast and a good teaspoon of sea salt.

Add in more veggies

I love to add in other vegetables sometimes too. A handful of cherry tomatoes, broccoli and sautรฉed mushrooms work really well, as does roasted sweet potato.

Add chicken or tuna

To up the protein content of the meal (though no longer vegetarian) add in cooked chicken or a can of tuna.

If your looking to convince your kids in the greens department...

Click HERE for loads of tips and recipe ideas.
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I'd love to hear how you like this simple pasta dish. It's super tasty and so nourishing - you can leave a comment or rate the recipe below.

Mushroom Lentil Lasagne (to die for)

March 1, 2018 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Freezable Meals, Vegetarian

I have SO much thyme in my garden at the moment and even though it is just one of many ingredients in this totally divine Mushroom Lentil Lasagne, it was what ultimately inspired this dish. I’m constantly experimenting on delicious ways to win over my meat loving family and this is our latest vegetarian favourite so I thought I’d better share it.

For about 20 years of my life I was a vegetarian, many of those years I was a student also so legumes, being a cheap, healthy source of protein, were my go to. Various types of vegetarian bolognese type dishes were staples for me back than- the base ingredients were similar, always a legume of some kind + vegetables + tomatoes + various herbs and spices depending upon what I felt like.

So in creating my latest vegetarian lasagne, I returned to my tried and tested formula, balancing the flavours of thyme and vegetables until ย it was perfect – and now it is, so I hope you love it as much as my family does (even the legume fussy one in our household loves this).

For a legume-free vegetarian lasagne, my Pumpkin Lasagne has been a huge hit with the Well Nourished audience too. They are both the best veggie lasagna recipes.

Health benefits

Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, fibre, and essential nutrients like iron and folate. Mushrooms add depth of flavour and are rich in antioxidants, while the variety of vegetables provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals. This dish supports a balanced, gut-friendly diet.

Ingredients

Key ingredients include Puy lentils, mushrooms, an array of vegetables (onion, garlic cloves, carrots, celery, zucchini, and spinach), and a rich cheese sauce. For a gluten-free or vegan version, variations are provided below.

How to make this mushroom lentil lasagne

To make this vegetarian lasagne is super simple. To make the lentil sauce, begin by sautรฉing the onions and garlic in olive oil. Add the finely chopped celery, carrots, and zucchini, followed by mushrooms, lentils, tomato paste, stock, and tomatoes. Simmer for about 30 minutes until the lentils are cooked and the sauce thickens. Stir in the spinach to wilt before setting aside.

For the cheese sauce, melt butter in a pot, then whisk in flour to form a paste. Gradually add milk while stirring, allowing the sauce to thicken. Add grated cheese and season with salt and pepper.

If you own a Thermomix, we’ve also included Thermomix instructions for this recipe.

To assemble, layer the lentil sauce and lasagna noodles (sheets) in a baking dish, topping it all off with cheese sauce and extra grated cheese. Bake for 30โ€“45 minutes at 180โ„ƒ until the lasagne is cooked through and golden on top.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Leftovers can be portioned and stored in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer. Reheat in the oven until just hot.

Vary this mushroom lentil lasagne to suit

For a gluten and grain-free option, use gluten-free lasagne sheets or layer with thinly sliced eggplant or zucchini. For a vegan cheese sauce, steam and puree cauliflower with nutritional yeast, almond milk, and seasoning to create a dairy-free Bรฉchamel. Top with grated vegan cheese. For an onion and garlic-free variation, replace with sautรฉed fennel, cumin, and chilli powder for a delicious alternative.

Quicker version

If youโ€™re short on time, the lentil sauce can be simply served as a pasta sauce or made into a pasta bake.

Take a look at the variations (below the main recipe) for suggestions to alter the recipe to suit many specific dietary requirements.


For more delicious, easy to make healthy lasagne recipes, click HERE.

Mushroom Lentil Lasagne - This Mushroom and Lentil Lasagne is so delicious and is sure to win over meat lovers and fussy little ones. This is one nutrient and protein rich vegetarian meal (with an option for vegans too). It's perfect family food.
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4.74 from 142 votes

Mushroom and Lentil Lasagne (to die for)

This wholesome Mushroom and Lentil Lasagne is a delicious, vegetarian twist on the classic dish. Packed with vegetables and hearty Puy lentils, itโ€™s a great comfort meal thatโ€™s both nutritious and satisfying.
Prep Time20 minutes mins
Cook Time1 hour hr
Total Time1 hour hr 20 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Servings: 4
Author: Georgia Harding

Ingredients

  • 100 g Puy (French) lentils (ยฝ cup approx.)
  • 15 ml extra virgin olive oil -extra virgin (1 tbsp)
  • 1 onion/s -peeled and halved
  • 3 clove/s garlic -peeled and chopped
  • 1 stick/s celery -roughly chopped
  • 2 carrot/s -roughly chopped
  • 1 zucchini/s (medium) roughly chopped
  • 2 bay leaf/s -dried
  • 1 bunch/s fresh thyme leaves - leaves picked off the stems
  • 250 g mushrooms -Swiss brown or portobello
  • 3 tbsp tomato paste
  • 400 ml vegetable stock (or bone broth if not worried about it no longer being vegetarian)
  • 400 g diced tinned tomatoes (or 6 vine ripened roma tomatoes) diced
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper -to taste
  • 60 g baby spinach -chopped (2 cups)
  • 200 g dried lasagne sheets (see below for GF and GrF)

Cheese sauce (see below for a vegan version)

  • 115 g cheddar cheese (1 cup) grated
  • 30 g butter
  • 55 g wholemealย speltย flour (ยฝ cup)
  • 500 ml milk (of choice) (2 cups) -see below variations
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper -to taste
Metric - US Customary

Instructions

  • Pre-heat your oven to 180โ„ƒ / 350โ„‰ fan-forced (about 10 minutes before you are ready to bake the lasagne).ย 
  • I personally like to soak all legumes overnight in water with a splash of vinegar, so do this with the puy lentils if you like (you don't have to, but I'd recommend it).
  • I used my Thermomix to do all the chopping, but you can easily use a regular food processor or grate/ finely dice all the veggies by hand. No need to wash or rinse the food processor in between each step too.
  • In a food processor or Thermomix chop your garlic. If using a Thermomix, 5 secs, speed 5 and then add onion 5 secs, speed 4.
  • Heat a large pan over a low heat and add the olive oil (or you can use ghee or butter if not vegan). Add the chopped garlic/onion and gently sautรฉ whilst processing the other veggies.
  • Now pop the celery, carrots and zucchini into your food processor and pulse to chop - you are looking for a course consistency so be careful not to over process. If using a Thermomix use the turbo button, quick pulses until the right consistency, about 2-3 should do it look through the lid after each pulse. Alternatively grate the carrot and zucchini and finely dice the celery. Add this to the pan with the onion.
  • Sautรฉ for a few minutes with the bay leaves and thyme leaves.
  • Pulse the mushrooms in the food processor until just chopped. If using a Thermomix pulse 1-2 times.
  • Add them to the pan with the Puy lentils, tomato paste, stock and diced tomatoes. Season, stir to combine and allow to simmer with the lid ajar, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the lentils are cooked. This will take about 30 minutes.
  • Once cooked, add the chopped spinach and stir though to wilt it. Taste, adjust the seasoning if you need to (salt brings out the flavour so don't be shy). Remove from the heat and set aside. 

Cheese sauce

  • Grate the cheese (in the processor and set aside).
  • For the Thermomix method, follow the recipe for Bรฉchamel in your basic cookbook.
  • In a medium sized pot, melt the butter over a low heat. Remove from the heat and add the flour mixing to combine.
  • Return to a medium to high heat and gradually add the milk, approx. half a cup at a time mixing constantly. As it heats it will thicken, this is when you should add another half a cup of milk. Do this until all the milk is added and the sauce is thick.
  • Add about a quarter of the cheese, season with sea salt and pepper to taste, and stir well (reserve the rest of the cheese for the top of the lasagne).

Assemble

  • To assemble the lasagne, use a medium size baking dish (mine is 25 x 25cm), placing half of the lentil sauce in the base, top with lasagne sheets, then the remaining lentil sauce, another layer of pasta and finish with the cheese sauce and the remaining grated cheese.
  • Bake for 30 - 45 minute or until the lasagne is cooked through.

Serve

  • With a big green salad or steamed veggies.

Make-ahead

  • Re-heat in a low oven until just hot.

Store

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge. I store it in a rectangle shaped oven proof glass pyrex or glass lock container so I can simply remove the lid and reheat in the storage container (saves washing up).
  • Can also be frozen.

Notes

Gluten and grain-free

Choose gluten-free lasagne sheets and for grain free layer with thinly sliced eggplant (aubergine) or zucchini (courgette).

Vegan (dairy-free) cheese sauce

Steam half a large head of cauliflower, then puree with a tablespoon of nutritional yeast, a generous pinch of sea salt and pepper and a splash of almond milk to achieve a Bรฉchamel consistency (thick sauce). Top with grated vegan cheese.

Onion and Garlic-free

Replace both with finely diced fennel sautรฉed with a pinch of cumin and chilli powder.ย 

All in the Thermomix

I personally used my TMX for all the preparation (chopping) and making the cheese sauce but cooked the lentil sauce in the pan as I prefer the consistency the pan produces (plus the volume of the sauce is pushing the bowl limits). But if you did want to cook it all in the TMX, ย I'd cook on reverse, speed 1, temp 100, 30 minutes (or until the lentils are cooked through) with the lid ajar.ย 
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Enjoy! I'd love to hear how you and your family enjoyed this tasty dish. Please leave a comment and let me know what you think (star rating extra appreciated as that way this recipe will entice even more people).ย 

Turkey Sage Spaghetti Meatballs

June 1, 2016 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Chicken, Freezable Meals

This Turkey Sage Spaghetti with Meatballs is my twist on Jamie Oliver’sย  famous โ€œrecipe to save your lifeโ€. Jamie nominated his Classic Tomato Spaghetti for me (and a small group of cooks) to reinvent. Now, itโ€™s hard to mess with a classic, but the naturopath in me couldnโ€™t resist adding a boost of protein and vegetables to turn this simple staple into a more balanced, nutritionally complete meal.

So that’s exactly what I did and not only is this Turkey Sage Spaghetti Meatballs a very nourishing meal, it’s also absolutely delicious and really very quick and simple to make. It can also be made ahead and reheated to serve.

Health benefits

Turkey is a vitamin and mineral rich source of protein. It is a rich source of tryptophan which is a precursor of the neurotransmitter serotonin, our feel-good hormone. It’s also a great source of vitamin B12, which makes it a great option forย those who suffer from anxiety and mood disorders. I like to cook with it occasionally to add a little nutritional variety to my families diet. The assortment of vegetables included in the meatballs and sauceย contributesย lots of plant-based fibre and nutrition.

You can serve this dish the traditional way, with whole wheat or gluten-free spaghetti. Or for even more nutritional bang for your buck, serve it with zoodles (courgettes/zucchini spiralized) or quinoa. Whatever your preference, these are SO delicious!

What you need to make this Spaghetti Meatball recipe

Youโ€™ll need turkey mince, fresh sage, almond meal, an egg, and a few staple veggies like onion, garlic, and spinach for the meatballs. The tomato sauce uses roma tomatoes (or canned), fresh basil, onion, garlic, and olive oil for a delicious, authentic Italian touch.

How to make Turkey Sage Spaghetti Meatballs

Start by cooking the tomato sauce with diced onion, cloves garlic, and tomatoes, allowing it to simmer to bring out the flavours. While the sauce is simmering, mix the meatball ingredients in a large bowl, roll them into golf ball-sized portions, and cook them in a hot pan. Once browned, simmer the meatballs in the sauce until cooked through.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve these meatballs with your favourite pasta, gluten-free spaghetti, or zoodles, topped with fresh basil (or parsley) and grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast. They also pair well with a simple green salad. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge in an airtight container or frozen for easy meals later on.

Vary turkey sage spaghetti meatballs to suit your needs

For nut-free meatballs, swap almond meal with breadcrumbs. If you need an egg-free version, just leave out the egg. You can also replace onion with fennel or omit garlic, using cumin and cayenne for extra flavour. Check out the variations below the main recipe for all of my tips on how to adapt it to your specific dietary needs.

PS- this dish is photographed in the stunning Solidteknics safe, non-stick, everlasting cookware. More about it HERE.


For more delicious, easy to make healthy meals, click HERE.

Turkey bacon and sage meatballs - These Turkey and Sage Spaghetti Meatballs are a nutritionally balanced, easy to make delicious meal for the whole family. Gluten and dairy free.
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4.78 from 9 votes

Turkey Sage Spaghetti Meatballs

Turkey sage spaghetti meatballs are a wholesome twist on a classic family favourite. With tender turkey mince, fresh sage, and a rich homemade tomato sauce, these meatballs are delicious served over spaghetti or zoodles for a gluten-free option. This is a go-to recipe when you're looking for something comforting and nutritious.
Prep Time30 minutes mins
Cook Time35 minutes mins
Total Time1 hour hr 5 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 6

Ingredients

Tomato Sauce

  • 1 bunch/s fresh basil leaves
  • 1 onion/s -finely diced
  • 2 clove/s garlic -finelyย sliced
  • 1 kg roma tomatoe/s (or 2 x 400g tins of chopped tomatoes)
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (or balsamic vinegar)
  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil -extra virgin

Turkey and Sage Meatballs

  • 1 rasher/s bacon - short cut, finely diced
  • 1 red onion/s -finely diced
  • 1 clove/s garlic -crushed
  • 30 g baby spinach -finely chopped (1 cup approx.)
  • 1 carrot/s (large) grated
  • 500 g turkey mince
  • 50 g almond meal (ยฝ cup)
  • 1 egg/s
  • 2 tbsp fresh sage leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried sage)
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper -to taste
  • 300 g spaghetti - I love quinoa and rice spaghetti

Instructions

Start with the tomato sauce:

  • Pick the basil leaves from the stalks, finely chop the stalks and set aside the basil leaves which you can also roughly chop or tear.
  • Peel and finely dice the onion and garlic. I generally chop this in the Thermomix garlic 5 seconds, speed 5 then add the onion, 10 seconds speed 5. I then add this to a small pot (to make the sauce) and without washing the Thermomix, use the bowl to make the meatballs. 
  • Put a saucepan on a medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the onion and garlic. Cook for around 7 minutes, or until soft and lightly golden.
  • If using fresh, cut the tomatoes in half, then roughly chop them or carefully open the tins of tomatoes.
  • Stir in the basil stalks for a few minutes, then add the fresh or tinned tomatoes and the vinegar.
  • Season with a tiny pinch of salt and pepper, then continue to simmer for around 20 minutes (for canned tomatoes) or 30 minutes for fresh, stirring occasionally.
  • Once cooked, remove from the heat and stirย in the basil leaves (reserving a few to garnish).
  • Meanwhileโ€ฆ

Prepare the meatballs:

  • Prepare (chop or grate) your bacon, onion, garlic, spinach and carrot (by hand or in a food processor). Thermomix garlic first 5 seconds speed 5, then the onion, bacon, carrot and spinach, 20 seconds speed 4-5 (until chopped finely).
  • Place in a large mixing bowl with the turkey mince, almond meal, egg, sage and seasoning. Thermomix add the mince, almond meal, egg, sage and seasoning and mix 30 seconds, on reverse speed 3 (you may need to scrape the sides to make sure the ingredients are evenly combined).
  • Wash your hands well and squeeze the mixture to combine all of the meatball ingredients.
  • Roll it into approx. golf ball sized meatballs and set aside until ready to cook.
  • To cook, place a little olive oil in a large non-stick or cast iron pan and heat over a medium-high heat. Cook the meatballs for about 5 minutes or until brown, turning to cook on both sides.
  • Once the meatballs are almost cooked, pour over the tomato sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes or until the meatballs are cooked firm.

Serve

  • With the reserved basil leaves and finely grated Parmesan cheese (or nutritional yeast for dairy-free).
  • With al dente whole wheat or gluten-free pasta, zoodles or quinoa.
  • I also serve with a simple green salad.

Make-ahead

  • Re-heat in a pot over a low heat until just hot.

Store

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
  • Can also be frozen (cooked meatballs in sauce). Or, you can freeze the meatballs prior to cooking.

Notes

Nut-free

Replace the almond meal with breadcrumbs.

Egg-free

Simply omit the egg.

Onion-free

Replace the onion with finely diced fennel in the sauce and omit in the meatballs.ย 

Garlic-free

Replace the garlic with a teaspoon of ground cumin and a pinch of cayenne in the sauce and the meatballs.ย 
ย 
Check out all 10 twists on Jamie's Classic Tomato Spaghetti HERE.
ย 
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Enjoy and I'd love to hear how you liked it. Post a comment below!

ย 

Smoked Salmon Pea Broccoli Pasta

September 16, 2015 | 30 Minute Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Fish & Seafood

We tend not to eat a heap of pasta, but it does make for a really fast meal occasionally. So it’s handy to have a few easy, delicious flavour combos like this lemony, Smoked Salmon Pea Broccoli Pasta recipe to call on.

This recipe came about after I bought some hot smoked salmon from our local farmers market (it’s also available in supermarkets), which I generally keep in the fridge toย whip up aย salad (like this one).

But it was a beautiful sunny Sunday and we were reminiscing about a long gone (but memorable) holiday in Italy – when the urge for pasta struck. So here it is, a delicious quick and easy to make Italian inspired meal…

Health benefits

This creamy smoked salmon pasta recipe is packed full of nutrition with omega-3 fatty acids and protein from the salmon, fibre from the peas and broccoli, and a touch of healthy fats from butter, it’s both nourishing and satisfying. The addition of sour cream or crรจme fraรฎche provides a creamy texture while maintaining a light feel.

Ingredients

The dish comes together with pasta (or zoodles for a grain-free option), hot smoked salmon, peas, broccoli, and a creamy sauce of butter, sour cream, and lemon zest, with a splash of white wine for depth.

What is โ€˜Hotโ€™ smoked salmon?

Hot smoked salmon is smoked at a higher temperature, cooking the fillets of fish fully, resulting in a firm, flaky texture and a rich, smoky flavour. Itโ€™s ready to eat and great in salads or cooked dishes. Cold smoked salmon, on the other hand, is smoked at a lower temperature, which doesnโ€™t cook the fish but cures it instead. This gives it a softer, silky texture and a more delicate, mild smoky flavour. It comes in thin slices where as the hot smoked salmon is sold in fillets. Both are available in major supermarkets.

How to make this smoked salmon pasta

Cook the pasta (or prepare zoodles if using) then drain well. Sautรฉ onion and garlic in butter, add broccoli and peas, then deglaze with wine. Stir in remaining butter, sour cream, and lemon, then fold in the smoked salmon. Gently mix the pasta or zoodles through the sauce and serve immediately.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve this Smoked Salmon Pea Broccoli Pasta warm with a leafy salad for a well-rounded meal. It can also be enjoyed cold as a pasta salad, making it great for leftovers. Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the fridge.

Vary this Smoked Salmon Pea Broccoli Pasta to suitย 

For dairy-free, use olive oil and coconut cream instead of butter and sour cream. Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option, or serve with zoodles to make it grain-free. If youโ€™re avoiding onion, swap it for fennel, and if you prefer not to use wine, replace it with stock and a splash of vinegar for a similar flavour profile. I also love this with a couple tablespoons of capers mixed through. Feel free to serve with grated parmesan cheese too.ย 

Take a look at the variations below for all the details as well asย suggestions to alter the recipe to suit your specific dietary requirements.


For more delicious, nourishing and easy to make meals click HERE.

This Smoked Salmon Pea Broccoli Pasta is a really simple, delicious meal. Itโ€™s a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner that feels gourmet
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5 from 8 votes

Smoked Salmon Pea Broccoli Pasta

This Smoked Salmon Pea Broccoli Pasta is a simple, delicious meal, combining pasta with rich smoked salmon and vibrant green veggies. Itโ€™s a perfect dish for a quick weeknight dinner that feels gourmet.
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time15 minutes mins
Total Time25 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 50 g butter
  • 1 red onion/s -finely diced
  • 1 clove/s garlic -finely chopped or crushed
  • 150 g peas (1 cup) frozen or fresh
  • 1 broccoli (small head) broken into smallย florets
  • 60 ml dry white wine (ยผ cup)
  • 2 tbsp sour cream -or creme fraiche (see dairy-free below)
  • ยฝ lemon/s -juice and zest
  • 1 fillet/s hot smoked salmon fillet/s
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper -to taste
  • 300 g pasta -or approx. 3 cups of zoodles

Instructions

  • Fill a large pot with water and bring to the boil. Once boiling cook your pasta.
  • In a pan, sautรฉ the onion and garlic in 25g of the butter over a low heat until soft and translucent (try no to brown it).
  • Add broccoli and stir-fry for a couple of minutes to just start to soften it then add the peas.
  • Turn the heat to high and add the wine (it should sizzle and reduce instantly).
  • Turn off the heat immediately and addย the remaining butter, sour cream, lemon juice and zest and mix to combine. Season to taste.
  • Break the salmon into chunks and add to the peas/broccoli sauce.
  • When the pasta is al dente, strain (rinse if necessary) and gently fold through the sauce.
  • If using zoodles, obviously you don't need to cook them, just toss gentlyย through the sauce to heat.

Serve

  • Completely optional, but this is lovely finished with grated parmesan cheese.
  • Immediately with a big leafy salad
  • You can also allow to cool and eat as a pasta salad (good for leftovers)

Store

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge.

Notes

Dairy-free

Sub the butter for olive oil and the sour cream for coconut cream.

Grain-free

Serve on zoodles.

Gluten-free

Choose a gluten-free pasta.

Onion-free

Replace the onion with a small bulb of finely diced fennel.

No wine

Replace the wine with stock or bone broth and a teaspoon of vinegar.ย 

Add capers

I love this with a couple tablespoons of capers mixed through.
ย 

Id love to hear how you like this simple meal. Post a comment or rate this recipe.ย 

Roast Vegetables, Three Ways (that even the kids will like)

June 24, 2013 | Vegetarian

This Roast Vegetables, Three Ways recipe is a versatile and easy way to transform simple veggies into delicious meals the whole family will enjoy – even the kids! Whether you want a hearty side dish, a rich pasta sauce, or a nourishing soup, these roasted veggies have you covered. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create multiple dishes with minimal effort. It’s a wonderful and delicious way for hiding vegetables in meals.

Health benefits of hiding vegetables in meals

This recipe is perfect for parents to help with hiding vegetables in meals (for picky eaters). Packed with a variety of colourful vegetables, this recipe provides a wholesome way to enjoy seasonal produce. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, and it’s an easy way to incorporate more fibre rich, plant-based foods into your meals.

What you need to make Roast Vegetables, Three Ways

This recipe uses a variety of everyday vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, zucchini, and capsicum (bell peppers), combined with herbs, garlic, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds for crunch. For a richer flavour, add tomatoes to the mix if you’re making pasta sauce or soup. Optional extras like fennel or eggplant can switch things up.

How to make the base for these three recipes

Simply toss your chopped vegetables in olive oil, ghee, or butter, season with oregano, salt, and pepper, then spread them in a single layer onto a baking tray or baking sheet. Roast at 180โ„ƒ/350โ„‰ for 40-60 minutes, until tender. For the pasta sauce or soup versions, blend the roasted veggies, and you’re ready to go!

Serving suggestions and how to store

These roasted vegetables can be served as a side with any protein, or turned into a creamy soup or pasta sauce by blending them. Leftovers can be turned into a hearty salad with leafy greens, feta, or grains like quinoa. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, or freeze the soup and sauce versions for later.

Vary this to suit your dietary needs

For a vegan version, use olive oil and skip the cheese or meat additions. If you’re legume-free, simply avoid the beans in the soup or pasta sauce variations. Feel free to adapt the veggies based on what you have on hand!

Roast vegetables three waysโ€”delicious and kid-friendly, with a variety of flavors and textures.
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4 from 1 vote

Baked vegetables, three ways (that even the kids will like)

One simple tray of roasted vegetables can become three different meals. Here's how...
Prep Time10 minutes mins
Cook Time1 hour hr
Total Time1 hour hr 10 minutes mins
Course: Soup, Main Course, Salad

Ingredients

  • 1 large sweet potato/s -skin on and cubed (can sub pumpkin)
  • 3 carrot/s -unpeeled and sliced
  • 100 g mushrooms -Swiss brown or button, whole or quarter field
  • 1 zucchini/s -sliced or cubed
  • 1 red capsicum/s -roughly sliced
  • 2 red onion/s -peeled and quartered
  • 4 clove/s garlic -whole and unpeeled
  • 3 tbsp butter, ghee or olive oil -melted
  • 60 g pumpkin seeds (ยฝ cup)
  • 2 tbsp dried oregano
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper -to taste

If making this into a pasta sauce or soup also include:

  • 6 vine ripened tomatoe/s -halved and placed cut side up on the roasting tray ( depending on the size of your tray, they may need to sit on top of the vegetables) or 2 punets of cherry tomatoes, whole. ย The vegetables sit very well behind the tomato flavour. ย However if your kids can still detect vegetables, then next time, remember to increase the amount of tomatoes and reduce the quantity of vegetables.ย  ย For very vegetable fussy kids, do this to begin with.

Optional extras:

  • 1 bulb fennel -quartered
  • 1 eggplant/s -small

Instructions

  • Preheat your oven to 180โ„ƒ/350ยฐF (fan-forced).
  • Take a large baking or roasting tray. Throw in all of your cut up vegetables, oregano, salt and pepper and ghee (or butter or olive oil) and toss to coat them all well.
  • Place you tomatoes, cut side up on top (sprinkle with a little extra oregano, salt and pepper). Scatter over the pepitas.
  • Place in the oven for about 40 - 60 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked through.
  • Drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil, adjust the seasoning and serve as a side with any type of protein.

Soup

  • Squeeze the flesh from the garlic skin.
  • Throw all of the contents of the baking dish into a blender or food processor (or Thermomix), with a glug of EV olive oil, season well and blend on a high speed until pureed.
  • Add in some fresh basil or parsley to for extra goodness and flavour.
  • To add protein, include a can of brown lentils or canellini beans (drained and rinsed). These can be either stirred through or pureed too.
  • Add a little water or stock to achieve the desired consistency. I love a thick soup, so I would use only a little stock.

Pasta sauce

  • Squeeze the flesh from the garlic skin.
  • Throw all of the contents of the baking dish in a blender or food processor (or Thermomix), with a glug of EV olive oil, season well and blend on a high speed until pureed.
  • Add in some fresh basil or parsley too for extra goodness and flavour.
  • You could even add a spoon or two of your favourite pesto to the mix (or on top as I have pictured below).
  • To add protein, include a can of brown lentils or canellini beans (drained and rinsed). These can be either stirred through for texture or pureed to. You could also add a can of tuna, some diced bacon or chorizo sausage if you like.
  • Serve over pasta with grated cheese. I often mix this sauce through macaroni or tube pasta to coat it, add a little feta or goats cheese to if you like and top it with grated cheese. Bake in the oven for 10 minutes.
  • My favourite type of pasta is a gluten-free rice and quinoa pasta.

Salad

  • Let the vegetables cool down.
  • Toss salad leaves in a dressing of one part red wine vinegar to two parts extra virgin olive oil, seasoned well.
  • Add the cooledย  vegetables, gently toss and serve.
  • This is lovely with crumbled feta or goats cheese mixed through.
  • Add some legumes, tuna, cooked meat, brown rice or quinoa to make a real meal of it.

Store

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
  • The soup and sauce versions can be frozen.

Notes

Vegan and vegetarian

Obviously avoid any of the meat/ cheese additions (stick with legumes for protein). For vegan choose olive oil.

Legume-free

Avoid the suggestions for beans/ pulses.ย 

ย 

There you have it. One dish, loads of healthy meals. Cook without boundaries. Enjoy and I'd love to receive your comments!

Healthy Bolognese (with a few twists)

June 3, 2013 | Budget Friendly, Make-ahead Meals, Pasta and Noodles, Red Meat, Freezable Meals

While it may seem like reinventing the wheel, Iโ€™m excited to share this classic family favourite with a healthy twist. This Healthy Bolognese recipe is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to be vegetarian, gluten-free, or grain-free. Itโ€™s perfect for dinner or even breakfast, making it a multi-meal marvel. This simple recipe allows you to make every mouthful count nutritionally and ensures your efforts are rewarded with happy, healthy children.

Why homemade bolognese is a better choice

If you’ve fallen into the habit of using store-bought sauces for your mince, this recipe is for YOU! Making your own bolognese sauce takes only a few minutes and offers a superior taste and nutritional value. Unlike sterile supermarket sauces, which are often loaded with sugar and additives, this homemade version is fresh, delicious and packed with nutrients.

Boosting nutritional value with hidden vegetables

This Bolognese is a fantastic opportunity to add in a variety of healthy vegetables. By grating, finely chopping, or using a food processor, you can incorporate veggies that “disappear” into the sauce, making it perfect for fussy eaters who are averse to vegetables. This ensures that even the pickiest eaters get a nutrition boost without compromising on flavour.

Experimenting with different proteins

To keep things interesting and add variety, try using different types of protein in your Bolognese. Chicken or turkey mince are excellent alternatives to traditional beef or pork and offer their own unique flavours. This variation not only keeps meals exciting but also contributes to a balanced diet. Made with beef mince, this meal has about 35 grams of protein per serve.

The health benefits of herbs and tomatoes

The herbs used in this recipe support a healthy digestive system, adding both flavour and health benefits. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that provides protection against various health issues. Incorporating these ingredients into your Bolognese not only enhances taste but also boosts its nutritional profile.

Personal experience with healthy bolognese

This Healthy Bolognese has become a staple in our family meal plan. Itโ€™s a hit with the kids, and I love knowing that Iโ€™m adding a nutritious, homemade sauce to their pasta. I often experiment with different vegetables and proteins to keep things fresh and exciting. Itโ€™s a versatile recipe that adapts well to various dietary needs and preferences. We love it topped with grated cheddar or parmesan cheese.

Why this recipe works

This Healthy Bolognese recipe offers a balance of taste and nutrition. Its versatility allows it to cater to different dietary requirements, while the homemade sauce ensures a healthier alternative to store-bought options. By adding vegetables and varying proteins, you create a meal that is both satisfying and beneficial for your family’s health.

Serving suggestions and how to store

Serve your Healthy Bolognese with pasta and a simple green salad for a complete meal. Bolognese is a great dish to pre-prepare and it also freezes really well. I often freeze leftovers in little glass pyrex containers. If time is an issue, double this recipe and freeze in ready to go batches. Just reheat over low heat and enjoy again!

Vary this to suit your dietary needs

Check out the variations below the main recipe for tips on how to adapt it to your specific dietary needs. For a gluten-free meal, opt for rice or quinoa pasta. If you’re following a grain-free or paleo diet, zucchini ribbons or baked potatoes make a great base. Vegetarians can swap the mince for lentils and mushrooms, and if youโ€™re looking to stretch the dish, adding lentils is a great way to do so! Or take a look at this Mushroom Walnut Bolognese and this incredible, not at all fishy Fish Bolognese.

Healthy bolognese made with lean meat, vegetables, and flavorful herbsโ€”packed with nutrition and flavor.
Print Recipe
4.92 from 12 votes

Healthy Bolognese (with a few twists)

My healthy Spaghetti Bolognese is such a versatile meal - check out my many variations for loads of inspiration for this family favourite.ย 
Prep Time15 minutes mins
Cook Time30 minutes mins
Total Time45 minutes mins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil - extra virgin
  • 2 onion/s - diced
  • 2 clove/s garlic - finely chopped or crushed
  • 500 g beef mince - or turkey or chicken mince (see below for vegetarian)
  • 2 bay leaf/s
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary - or 2 tablespoons of fresh
  • 1 tbsp dried oregano
  • 1 carrot/s - grated
  • 1 zucchini/s - grated
  • 1 stick/s celery - finely chopped
  • 75 g mushrooms -sliced (or processed if mushroom fussy) (1 cup)
  • 700 g tomato passata (puree) - or you can use 5-6 vine ripened tomatoes, diced on a plate to keep the juice
  • Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper - to taste
  • 1 bunch/s fresh basil leaves - roughly chopped (to serve)
  • 300 g pasta - of your choice (I love rice, quinoa spaghetti)

Optional extras

  • 1 tbsp tomato paste - for a richer tomato flavour if using fresh tomatoes

Serve

  • Salad (to serve)

Instructions

  • In a large pan or a pot with a lid, sautรฉ onions and garlic in a tablespoon of olive oil over a low to medium heat, for a couple of minutes until they start to soften, but not brown.
  • Add the mince (or lentils) and bay leaves, dried rosemary and oregano and cook until it just starts to brown (about 5 minutes) then add the vegetables, tomatoes (and tomato paste if using). Season to taste.
  • Place the lid ajar the pan. Simmer until the sauce starts to thicken, minimum 30 minutes. The longer you can let it simmer, the richer the sauce will become.
  • Turn off the heat and stir in the basil. Serve with al dente spaghetti (or one of the variations below).

Thermomix

  • Chop the carrot, zucchini and celery 10 sec, speed 4. Set aside.
  • Now place the garlic in the bowl. Chop 5 sec, speed 6.
  • Add the onion and chop 5 seconds, speed 4.
  • Add the olive oil and saute 2 mins, 100, speed 1.
  • Add the mince, bay leaves, dried rosemary and oregano and cook 5 mins, 100, reverse speed 1.
  • Add the vegetables, mushrooms and tomato passata and cook 20-30 mins, 100, reverse speed 1 (with the cap in place so it doesn't spit over your bench). Season to taste.
  • Once cooked stir in the basil. Serve with al dente spaghetti (or one of the variations below).

Serve

  • I like to serve this with a simple green salad.

Make-ahead

  • Re-heat in a pot over a low heat until just hot.

Store

  • Store in an airtight container in the fridge.
  • Can also be frozen.

Notes

Gluten-free

Use gluten free pasta (I love rice and quinoa spaghetti), or zucchini ribbons.

Grain-free or Paleo

Serve with zucchini ribbons or stuffed in a baked potato.

Vegetarian and vegan

Substitute mince with a can of brown lentils (rinsed and drained) and 200g finely diced mushrooms.

Half vegetarian (plant boost)

Substitute half the mince for brown lentils (rinsed and drained). Adding lentils to leftover sauce is a simple way to make it go further.

Breakfast

Leftover Bolognese is a delicious breakfast. Serve it on whole grain toast or as a side with eggs.

Baked Bolognese

Place any leftovers into a greased dish or bowl. Make an indent in the top and crack an egg or two into the hollow. Top with cheese andย pepitas and bake until cooked the way you like it.
ย 

How do you eat your Bolognese? Can you add any interesting variations? Please comment or ask questions below.

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