Vegetarian Pastitsio
Looking for a comforting and hearty dish that fits perfectly into a vegetarian lifestyle? Vegetarian Pastitsio is the answer! This dish combines layers of delicious penne pasta, savory lentil filling, and a creamy béchamel sauce, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. It’s simple to prepare, and its flavors only improve with time, making it an excellent choice for busy days or meal prep.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 6
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 450
Protein: 20 grams
Carbohydrates: 60 grams
Fat: 15 grams
Fiber: 10 grams
Sugar: 6 grams
Sodium: 620 mg
Why Make Vegetarian Pastitsio
Vegetarian Pastitsio is a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based ingredients into your diet. With brown lentils as a primary protein source, this dish is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients. The combination of spices and the richness of the béchamel sauce elevates this dish, making it a favorite for both vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike. Plus, it’s versatile enough for various dietary preferences and can be easily adjusted to include your favorite vegetables or herbs.
How to Make Vegetarian Pastitsio Step by Step
Ingredients
12 ounces Penne Pasta
1 cup Brown Lentils
1 medium Onion, chopped
3 cloves Garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Tomato Paste
1 can (14 oz) Crushed Tomatoes
½ teaspoon Cinnamon
1 teaspoon Oregano
¼ teaspoon Nutmeg
2 tablespoons Olive Oil
¼ cup Flour
4 tablespoons Butter
3 cups Milk
½ cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
2 Egg Yolks
1½ teaspoons Salt
½ teaspoon Black Pepper
Directions
Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9×13 baking dish. In a saucepan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, lentils, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes. Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain. In another pan, melt butter, add flour, and whisk to form a roux. Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly until thickened. Stir in nutmeg, cool slightly, then whisk in egg yolks and half of the Parmesan. Layer half the pasta in the baking dish, then the lentil filling, followed by the remaining pasta. Pour béchamel sauce over the top layer and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbling. Let rest before serving.
How to Serve Vegetarian Pastitsio
Vegetarian Pastitsio is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with a fresh side salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can add brightness and flavor as well. Consider serving it with some crusty bread to soak up any of the remaining sauce for an extra treat!
How to Store Vegetarian Pastitsio
Leftover Vegetarian Pastitsio can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze portions of Vegetarian Pastitsio. Just make sure it is cooled completely before wrapping it tightly and placing it in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to three months; when ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up in the oven.
Expert Tips for Cooking Vegetarian Pastitsio
- For added flavor, consider sautéing some chopped bell peppers or carrots along with your onion and garlic.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the lentil filling.
- Ensure to stir your béchamel sauce continuously while cooking to prevent lumps for a smooth texture.
Delicious Variations of Vegetarian Pastitsio
- For a spiced twist, incorporate some cumin and coriander into the lentil mixture for added depth.
- Add a citrus twist by mixing in some lemon zest into the béchamel for a fresh contrast.
- Consider using whole grain or gluten-free pasta for dietary adjustments.
Vegetarian Pastitsio is an inviting and versatile dish that is sure to please anyone at the dinner table. With its layers of flavor and comforting textures, it’s a vegetarian meal that you and your family will want to make time and again. Give it a try and enjoy the wonderful taste of this traditional dish!
Vegetarian Pastitsio
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F and lightly grease a 9x13 baking dish.
- In a saucepan, sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft.
- Add tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, lentils, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Boil the pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain.
- In another pan, melt butter, add flour, and whisk to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in milk, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Stir in nutmeg, cool slightly, then whisk in egg yolks and half of the Parmesan.
- Layer half the pasta in the baking dish, then the lentil filling, followed by the remaining pasta.
- Pour béchamel sauce over the top layer and sprinkle with remaining Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Let rest before serving.
