Craving a warm, comforting, and incredibly healthy meal? Look no further than this delicious lentil tomato soup! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend lunch. Packed with protein, fiber, and vibrant flavors, this soup is a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy the best of homemade cooking. It's one of those quick dinner ideas that never disappoints, making it a staple in our house. Get ready to experience a symphony of flavors in every spoonful!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
-
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step builds a delicious foundation of flavor for your soup.
-
Add the lentils and broth: Add the rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
-
Blend (optional): For a smoother soup, carefully transfer the soup in batches to a blender and blend until smooth. Alternatively, you can use an immersion blender directly in the pot for easier cleanup. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
-
Season and serve: Return the soup to the pot (if blended) and season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves, a swirl of olive oil, or a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream, if desired. Enjoy this healthy and delicious meal!
Cooking Tips for the Best Lentil Tomato Soup:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of herbs and spices to your liking. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This is a great way to save time on busy days. It’s a fantastic example of efficient homemade cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy lentil soup: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Creamy lentil soup: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream for a richer, creamier texture.
- Hearty lentil soup: Add chopped vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Vegetarian lentil soup: Ensure your vegetable broth is vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This hearty and healthy lentil tomato soup is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor and nutrition. It’s a perfect addition to your repertoire of delicious dishes and best recipes, offering a satisfying and wholesome meal that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!