Turn on the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Once it is hot, add a tablespoon of water, onions and garlic and sauté 2-3 minutes. Add small amounts of water as needed until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Add the Italian seasoning and more water as needed. (You may use dehydrated onions and garlic granules instead of fresh. They do not need to be sauted.)
Turn off the sauté function by pressing “Cancel” and then add the water and scrape up any brown bits on the bottom.
Rinse the lentils and add to the water.
Cook the lentils on high pressure for 10 minutes. When cooking is complete you can allow the pressure to release naturally or do a quick release.
Pour the spaghetti sauce in with the lentils and stir. Add balsamic vinegar and or fresh basil or pesto to your liking. Put the lid on and keep on the warm setting until you are ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Serve on top of pasta.
Serve on top of roasted spaghetti squash.
Serve on top of your favorite toasted whole-grain bread (like whole wheat sourdough).
