Hearty Lentil & Tomato Soup: Cozy Comfort in a Bowl

Name: Lentil & Tomato Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils; 1 can (14.5 oz) no-salt-added diced tomatoes; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional); 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

James Walker

Posted:

May 28, 2025

Updated:

May 28, 2025

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The warm aroma of Lentil & Tomato Soup wafts through your kitchen, enveloping you in a cozy embrace. As the steam rises from the pot, it carries with it the promise of hearty flavors and comforting textures that can make even the gloomiest days feel brighter.

This delightful soup is more than just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl. Picture this: the rich earthiness of lentils mingling with zesty tomatoes, all while herbs dance playfully in the background. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings or when you simply need a little culinary cheerleading.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lentil & Tomato Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights
The vibrant colors and aromas create an inviting atmosphere at any table
Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also offers great versatility—serve it as an appetizer or a main course
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some veggies!

I still remember the time I made this soup for my friend’s gathering. The entire room filled with laughter and compliments; who knew lentils could be such crowd-pleasers?

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Green or Brown Lentils: Choose these varieties for their quick cooking time and ability to hold shape without turning mushy.
Canned Diced Tomatoes: Opt for no-salt-added varieties to control sodium levels while keeping flavor intact.
Onion: A medium yellow onion works best here for its sweetness that balances the acidity of tomatoes.
Garlic: Use fresh cloves for a punchy flavor that elevates the entire dish—mince them finely!

For Flavor Enhancements:

Vegetable Broth: Homemade broth gives depth, but store-bought works fine if you’re in a hurry.
Spinach or Kale: Feel free to toss in some greens toward the end for added nutrition and color.
Seasonings (Cumin, Paprika): These spices add warmth; smoked paprika brings an exciting twist—trust me!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prep Your Veggies: Start by dicing your onion and mincing your garlic. These will form the aromatic base of your soup that makes everything else shine!

Sauté Onions and Garlic: Heat olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add onions and sauté until they are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes; then stir in garlic until golden.

Add Lentils and Tomatoes: Pour in the rinsed lentils and canned tomatoes along with their juices. This creates a robust canvas for all those lovely flavors to develop.

Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Add vegetable broth to cover the lentils by about an inch. Sprinkle cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper—stir well to blend those spices into every nook!

Simmer Till Perfectly Tender: Bring everything to a boil before lowering heat to simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender yet intact.

Finish With Greens!: If using spinach or kale, stir them into the pot just before serving; they will wilt beautifully without losing nutrients or color.

Now you have yourself a steaming pot of Lentil & Tomato Soup that’s not only hearty but also heartwarming! Enjoy with crusty bread or on its own—no fancy plating required!

So grab your spoon and dig into this delightful creation that brings comfort with every bite!

You Must Know

This delightful lentil & tomato soup is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a fantastic choice for any meal
The aromas will waft through your kitchen, enticing everyone to the table
Perfect for cozy nights in, this soup warms both the body and soul

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onion and garlic for aromatic bliss, then add lentils and tomatoes for a hearty base. Simmer until tender, blending flavors beautifully.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spices or add veggies like carrots or spinach. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover lentil & tomato soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For a smoother texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving to create creaminess without cream
Always rinse lentils before use to remove dirt and debris
Adjust seasoning at the end for a perfect flavor balance that suits your taste buds

Sharing my first attempt at lentil & tomato soup takes me back to family gatherings when everyone asked for seconds! It’s heartwarming to see loved ones enjoy something I cooked with so much care.

FAQs

FAQ

Can you freeze lentil & tomato soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well; just store it in airtight containers.

What type of lentils work best?

Brown or green lentils are preferable as they hold their shape well during cooking.

How can I thicken my soup?

Blend a portion of the soup or add mashed potatoes for extra thickness and creaminess.

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