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To create a truly remarkable Hearty Slow Cooker Veggie Bolognese, it's essential to understand the role each ingredient plays in the dish. Let’s explore the key components that make this recipe both delicious and nutritious.

Slow Cooker Veggie Bolognese

Discover the incredible taste of a Hearty Slow Cooker Veggie Bolognese, a plant-based twist on a classic favorite. Perfectly designed for both vegetarians and meat-lovers, this dish offers a rich flavor profile that's developed through slow cooking, allowing the spices and vegetables to meld beautifully. Packed with nutritious ingredients like red lentils and fresh vegetables, it's not only satisfying but also a wholesome choice for the entire family. Enjoy it over pasta, quinoa, or zucchini noodles for a delightful meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep. Dive into comfort food that nourishes both body and soul!
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Ingredients
  

2 cups mushrooms, finely chopped

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 medium onion, chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes

2 tbsp tomato paste

1 cup vegetable broth

1 cup red lentils, rinsed

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried basil

½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp olive oil

Fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Pasta of your choice, for serving

Instructions
 

Sauté the Veggies: In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the garlic, mushrooms, bell pepper, and zucchini, cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes until all veggies are tender.

    Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed veggies to the slow cooker. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, red lentils, dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir the mixture until everything is well combined.

      Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cook for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 4-5 hours, stirring occasionally if possible, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.

        Prepare the Pasta: About 30 minutes before the Bolognese is done cooking, prepare your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

          Serve: Once the Bolognese is ready, adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the hearty veggie Bolognese over the cooked pasta and garnish with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese, if using.

            Enjoy your meal! This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 6-8 hours | 6 servings