Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup Recipe

This creamy tomato lentil soup is a comforting, hearty, and flavorful dish that combines the earthy goodness of lentils with the rich, tangy flavor of tomatoes. The addition of coconut milk makes the soup velvety smooth, while a blend of aromatic herbs like thyme and oregano enhances the overall flavor. This soup is perfect for any time of year, offering warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful. It’s not only filling but also nutritious, making it a great choice for a light lunch or dinner.

Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron, making them a healthy addition to your diet. Paired with vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes, this soup is as wholesome as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking for a nourishing meal or a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly evening, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy tomato lentil soup is a balanced, healthy, and filling dish that is both easy to make and highly nutritious. The lentils offer a boost of protein and fiber, making the soup satisfying enough to serve as a complete meal. The rich, creamy texture, combined with the tangy tomatoes and fragrant herbs, delivers a deep, comforting flavor that everyone will enjoy. Plus, it’s made with simple pantry staples and can be prepared in under 40 minutes, making it the perfect weeknight dinner or meal prep option.

Ingredients

• Dried green or brown lentils
• Olive oil
• Onion
• Garlic
• Carrot
• Celery stalk
• Dried thyme
• Dried oregano
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper
• Coconut milk

Variations

Add Greens

For added nutrients, you can stir in some spinach, kale, or Swiss chard towards the end of cooking. The greens will wilt nicely into the soup, making it even more nutritious.

Protein Boost

If you’re looking for an extra protein boost, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even tofu to the soup. Adding protein will turn this into a heartier meal.

Spicy Tomato Lentil Soup

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper to the soup along with the garlic and onions. It will give the soup an extra layer of flavor.

Vegan Option

This recipe is already vegan-friendly, but if you’d prefer a different non-dairy milk, you could use almond milk or cashew milk instead of coconut milk.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and diced celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Add Herbs and Spices

Stir in the dried thyme and oregano, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes, Broth, and Lentils

Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir everything together, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer the soup for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Step 5: Blend the Soup

Once the lentils are cooked, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until it’s smooth and creamy. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can carefully transfer the soup to a blender in batches and blend until smooth. Return the blended soup to the pot.

Step 6: Add Coconut Milk

Stir in the coconut milk and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Heat for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and hot.

Step 7: Serve

Serve the soup hot and enjoy its creamy texture and comforting flavors.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use dried lentils: Make sure to use dried lentils rather than canned lentils for the best texture and flavor. Dried lentils hold their shape better and give the soup a more hearty feel.
• Customize the consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, use less vegetable broth. For a thinner consistency, you can add a little more broth or water while blending.
• Blend to your preference: You can blend the soup until it’s completely smooth, or leave some lentils whole for added texture.
• Control the creaminess: For a lighter version, you can use light coconut milk or a different non-dairy milk to reduce the richness.

How to Serve

This creamy tomato lentil soup can be served on its own or paired with a side of crusty bread for dipping. It also pairs well with a fresh salad or a sandwich, making it a well-rounded meal. A drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan on top can elevate the flavor even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup tends to thicken as it sits, so you can add a bit of water or vegetable broth when reheating to reach your desired consistency.

Freezing

This soup freezes well. Once it has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth as needed.

Reheating

Reheat the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add more vegetable broth or water if needed to loosen the soup to your preferred consistency.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, canned lentils can be used. Just rinse them well before adding them to the soup, and reduce the cooking time to 10-15 minutes since the lentils are already cooked.

2. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this creamy tomato lentil soup is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

3. Can I use another type of milk instead of coconut milk?

Yes, you can substitute the coconut milk with other non-dairy milks, such as almond milk or oat milk, though it will slightly change the flavor and texture.

4. How can I make this soup spicier?

To add heat, you can stir in some red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or hot sauce along with the herbs and vegetables.

5. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, this soup can be made in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Blend it as directed when it’s done.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! You can add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers to the soup. Just chop them up and add them along with the onions and carrots.

7. Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes, you can make the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for later use.

8. How can I make this soup richer?

For a richer version, you can add a tablespoon of butter or a splash of cream instead of coconut milk.

9. Is this soup suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use vegetable broth and coconut milk, making it suitable for those following a plant-based diet.

10. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. You’ll need to peel and dice them and cook them down until they release their juices. Use about 4-5 medium tomatoes to replace the can of diced tomatoes.

Conclusion

This creamy tomato lentil soup is the perfect meal for any occasion—whether you need a cozy dinner or a nutrient-packed lunch. With its creamy texture, rich flavor, and filling lentils, it’s a dish that everyone will love. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and great for meal prep, making it a versatile option for busy days. Whether you make it on the stove or in a slow cooker, this soup is sure to warm you up and leave you satisfied. Enjoy!

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