Creamy Lemon Lentil Pasta Bowl

Name: Creamy Lemon Lentil Pasta Bowl
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz whole grain pasta; 1 cup cooked lentils; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 cup cashew cream; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love this Creamy Lemon Lentil Pasta Bowl! The bright and zesty flavors of lemon combine perfectly with the creamy texture of the sauce, creating a comforting yet refreshing dish. I often find myself making this recipe when I need a quick and nourishing meal that can be whipped up in under 30 minutes. The lentils add a hearty protein boost, making it filling and satisfying while still being light and vibrant. It's a wonderful way to elevate a simple pasta dish into something special.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:04:15.247Z

When I first tried this dish, I was amazed at how the lemon really brightens up the lentils, creating a refreshing twist. I experimented a bit with the creaminess, and found that using cashew cream gives the sauce a richness that’s absolutely delightful. The addition of fresh herbs adds a vibrant touch that makes every bite feel like a culinary celebration.

I particularly love how quickly it comes together; perfect for a weeknight dinner. The key is to ensure your pasta and lentils are cooked al dente. This not only adds a great texture but also keeps the dish from feeling too heavy. Pairing it with a sprinkle of lemon zest gives an extra zesty kick that’s irresistible.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        A deliciously creamy sauce that’s dairy-free
Bright lemon flavor adds a refreshing twist
Hearty lentils for a nutritious, satisfying meal

      

The Perfect Pasta Choice

For this Creamy Lemon Lentil Pasta Bowl, I recommend using whole grain pasta for its additional fiber and nutrients compared to regular pasta. High-quality whole grain varieties tend to hold their shape well and provide a satisfying chewy texture. Cook the pasta until al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes, to ensure it doesn't become mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce.

If you're looking to adjust the recipe for gluten-free diets, consider using lentil or chickpea pasta, which can add a unique flavor and texture while remaining high in protein. Just be sure to monitor the cooking time, as gluten-free pastas often require different boiling times compared to wheat-based options.

Ingredient Importance

The creamy sauce in this recipe derives its richness from cashew cream, which not only adds a velvety texture but is also a fantastic dairy-free alternative. You can make your own cashew cream by blending soaked cashews with a little water until smooth. If you're short on time, store-bought versions are readily available and can work beautifully here.

Lentils are the star protein in this dish, providing both heartiness and a nutritional boost. If you're in a pinch and don’t have cooked lentils on hand, canned lentils can be a convenient substitute, reducing your prep time dramatically. Just make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.

Ingredients

For the Pasta Bowl

12 oz whole grain pasta
1 cup cooked lentils
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 cup cashew cream
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Prepare the Sauce

Add cooked lentils, vegetable broth, and cashew cream to the skillet. Stir until well combined and heat through for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Mix the cooked pasta with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for creaminess. Stir in lemon juice and zest, then season with salt and pepper.

Garnish

Serve the pasta bowl topped with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or some sautéed spinach for added nutrients!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Lemon Lentil Pasta Bowl further, consider adding roasted vegetables. I particularly enjoy tossing in some cherry tomatoes or spinach, which not only boost the nutritional profile but also add a pop of color and flavor contrast to the dish. Serve this pasta warm, drizzled with a bit of extra olive oil for an enhanced taste experience.

For an added protein punch, grilled chicken or chickpeas can be an excellent complement. If you prefer plant-based options, crispy tofu sprinkled with a hint of lemon zest on top can enhance both the texture and flavor, making for a more substantial meal.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can cook the lentils and pasta in advance and store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. The creamy sauce can also be made ahead of time; just reheat it gently to prevent it from separating when mixing with the pasta.

To freeze, keep the pasta and sauce separate as the creaminess can change once thawed. Portion out the servings and store in freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy your meal, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth to help restore the sauce’s consistency.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free pasta to enjoy this recipe without gluten.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan when using cashew cream. Just ensure any store-bought ingredients are also vegan.

→ Can I store leftovers?

Absolutely! Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I use instead of cashew cream?

You can substitute it with coconut cream or any other plant-based cream.