Snotty Noses Happy Parents Raising Healthy Kids by Dr Orlena Kerek, Paediatrician

My children are carnivores. If I asked them what they wanted for dinner, we would have spaghetti bolognese EVERY SINGLE night. However, this mummy thinks healthy eating means meat should be eaten in moderation. So in the name of healthy eating and variety, I have created this awesome vegetarian version. Awesome, tasty, healthy vegetarian spaghetti bolognese. Now we are all happy.

Lentils are a great alternative to meat

Large quantities of red meat and processed meat have been linked

with cancer. To reduce your risk of cancer, eat lots of vegetables and only small amounts of meat. Lentils are a great alternative to meat. They are a source of both protein and fibre and kids love them as they’re naturally sweet.

Ingredients for Lentil Spaghetti Bolognese

• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 medium courgettes (zucchini), chopped
• 1 large red pepper, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, crushed
• 4 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 300 mls (1 cup) white wine
• 300 mls (1 cup) milk
• 1 cup (200g) red lentils
• 2 tins or jars of tomatoes
• 1 tsp grated nutmeg
• large saucepan (not an ingredient, I know, but it will come in useful!)

How to Make Lentil Spaghetti Bolognese

1. Fry all the onions in some olive oil until soft.
2. Add the rest of the vegetables and allow them to cook until soft (around 5 mins).
3. Add the white wine, milk, tomatoes, nutmeg and red lentils. Allow to simmer for half an hour.
4. Season to taste.

So easy! I think I should add some extra instructions just to make it feel like a ‘proper’ recipe. But really, it’s as easy as that. You can use pretty much any vegetables you like and don’t worry too much about the quantities.  I'm so glad that my kids love this healthy dinner.

An easy and healthy alternative to meat spaghetti bolognese that will satisfy the most ferocious of carnivore!