Italian Vegetable Bolognese

26th March 2026

Our Vegetable Italian Bolognese is a firm favourite on the Zebedees menu, and it is easy to see why. Packed with colourful vegetables, hearty lentils, and rich tomato flavours, this dish is both nourishing and full of comfort.

Designed with little ones in mind, it is a great way to introduce a variety of vegetables in a familiar and well-loved format. The lentils provide a natural source of protein and fibre, while the combination of herbs creates a deliciously mild Italian-inspired flavour that children enjoy.

Whether you are looking for a wholesome family meal or a simple way to add more plant-based dishes into your routine, this recipe is a great place to start.

Ingredients

·         200g green lentils

·         250g butternut squash, diced

·         250g carrots, diced

·         75g button mushrooms, sliced

·         150g onion, diced

·         40g garlic puree (about 2 tbsp)

·         400g chopped tomatoes (1 tin)

·         180g tomato paste (about 3 tbsp)

·         400ml water

·         1 x tbsp. Gravy powder (optional)

·         Dash of olive oil

·         150- 200g of raw elbow pasta (or other pasta as preferred)

Herbs & Spices

·         1tsp paprika

·         1tsp mixed herbs

·         1tbsp basil (fresh)

·         1/2 tsp rosemary

Method

1.       Chop all vegetables into small, even pieces.

2.       In a large pot, gently cook the onion and garlic with a little oil for 3 to 5 minutes until softened.

3.       Add carrots, squash, and mushrooms. Cook for another 5 minutes.

4.       Stir in lentils, paprika, mixed herbs, basil, and rosemary.

5.       Add chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, and water. Stir well.

6.       Bring to boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for 25 to 30 minutes until lentils and vegetables are soft.

7.       If the mixture is too wet, add 1 spoon of gravy powder and stir through to bind and thicken the sauce.

8.       Cook your pasta and then serve straight away or else chill in some cold water and sprinkle with a dash of olive oil in order to stop it over cooking and sticking together

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