Step 1

Cook the lentils in boiling water according to the pack instructions until tender, about 20-30 minutes.

Step 2

Meanwhile, bring another large saucepan of salted water to the boil and cook the pasta according to the pack instructions until al dente.

Step 3

At the same time, heat the olive oil in a frying pan over a medium heat, add the garlic cloves and fry for 1 minute. Add the mushrooms to the pan and stir-fry for 5 minutes, then remove the garlic cloves. Add the passata and cook for 10 minutes. Drain the cooked lentils, then stir into the tomato and mushroom sauce.

Step 4

Drain the pasta, add to the sauce and mix to combine. Stir in the grated cheese (if using), then remove from the heat and serve sprinkled with a little chopped parsley. This recipe is is from Gennaro’s Pasta Perfecto! Published by Pavilion Books. https://www.amazon.co.uk/Gennaros-Pasta-Perfecto-essential-collection/dp/1911624377/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=pasta+perfecto+gennaro&qid=1566836146&s=gateway&sr=8-1 >Grab yourself a copy here.