Vegan Smoky Lentil Meatballs Marinara

Experience a hearty, plant-based twist on classic Italian comfort food with these savory smoky lentil meatballs. Tender and full of flavor, they are simmered in a rich, homemade marinara sauce and served atop a bed of light, fresh zucchini noodles for a satisfying and nutritious vegan dinner.

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The combination of cooked lentils, rolled oats, and flaxseed creates a wonderful texture that holds up beautifully in the oven and the sauce. This recipe brings the warmth of Italian cuisine to your table while keeping things completely vegan and gluten-free friendly.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked brown or green lentils (well drained)
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp nutritional yeast
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 2 cups crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Pinch salt

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed with water. Let sit for 5 minutes to form a flax egg.

Step 3

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes.

Step 4

In a food processor, combine cooked lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, oats, breadcrumbs, tomato paste, nutritional yeast, flax egg, smoked paprika, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Pulse until the mixture holds together but still has some texture.

Step 5

Form mixture into 16 golf ball-sized balls. Place on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 6

Bake for 20–22 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and firm.

Step 7

While meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté 2–3 minutes. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

For the zucchini noodles, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add spiralized zucchini and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until just tender. Drain any excess liquid.

Step 9

Add baked lentil meatballs to the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes to warm through.

Step 10

To serve, divide zucchini noodles among plates, top with lentil meatballs and spoon over marinara sauce.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

When using the food processor, be careful not to over-process the mixture; keeping a bit of texture from the lentils and oats ensures a more pleasant, meat-like bite. Make sure the lentils are well-drained so the balls don't become too soft.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you prefer a more traditional pasta, you can swap the zucchini noodles for spaghetti or gluten-free pasta. For an extra smoky depth, try adding a drop of liquid smoke to the meatball mixture before forming the balls.

Serviervorschläge

Garnish your finished dish with fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese. A side of toasted garlic bread is also a fantastic addition to soak up the rich tomato sauce.

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This Vegan Smoky Lentil Meatball Marinara over Zucchini Noodles is a vibrant, healthy meal that doesn't compromise on flavor. It's a perfect choice for anyone looking for a hearty, plant-based dinner that feels like a classic Italian indulgence.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I make the lentil mixture hold together?

Using ground flaxseed mixed with water creates a binder similar to eggs, while oats and breadcrumbs add texture and help the meatballs hold shape during baking.

→ Can I use different vegetables instead of zucchini noodles?

Yes, spiralized cucumber, carrot noodles, or gluten-free pasta can be swapped to suit your preference or dietary needs.

→ What gives the meatballs their smoky flavor?

Smoked paprika is used in the mixture to infuse the lentil balls with a warm, smoky depth that complements the tomato sauce beautifully.

→ How long should I simmer the marinara sauce?

The marinara sauce should simmer gently for 15–20 minutes to develop rich flavors and allow the spices to fully blend.

→ Is it necessary to bake the lentil balls before adding to sauce?

Baking firms up the lentil balls so they hold together without falling apart, making them easier to handle and enhancing their texture before simmering in sauce.