No-Buy Week 3 update
Week 3 of our no-buy is going really well, and one big reason is that we’re focusing on eating what we already have at home instead of shopping. One pantry staple we always have plenty of is lentils, they’re climate-smart, healthy, and incredibly budget-friendly.
One of my kids’ favorite meals (and a true no-buy hero) is this lentil bolognese-style pasta sauce. It’s fast, protein-packed, and perfect for busy weeknights.
This is a recipe I always keep in my back pocket. It’s flexible, forgiving, and easy to adapt based on what you already have at home—perfect for a no-buy or pantry challenge.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 2/3 cup grated carrots
• 2/3 cup water
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 1 large garlic clove, grated
• 1 vegan bouillon cube
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes with Italian herbs
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 1/4 cup sour cream or dairy-free alternative
• 1 tbsp oregano
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt to taste
• Optional: grated cheese or dairy-free topping
Instructions:
1️⃣ Combine lentils, carrots, water, onion, and garlic in a pot. Bring to a boil.
2️⃣ Lower heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until lentils are soft.
3️⃣ Add crushed tomatoes, bouillon cube, brown sugar, ketchup, sour cream, oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, and salt.
4️⃣ Simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring well.
5️⃣ Toss with your favorite pasta and serve with veggies or a side salad.
No-buy doesn’t mean boring. It often means simpler meals, less waste, less stress, and more money saved. 💚
#NoBuyChallenge #NoBuyWeek3 #EatingFromThePantry #BudgetFriendlyMeals #ClimateSmartFood ...
