Description
Lentil & Tomato Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or busy weeknights. This hearty dish combines earthy lentils with vibrant tomatoes, aromatic herbs, and spices, creating a symphony of flavors that warms the soul. Easy to prepare and budget-friendly, it’s a family favorite that pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. Enjoy every spoonful of this nourishing delight!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and carrots; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, cumin, and paprika; cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add rinsed lentils and canned diced tomatoes (with juices). Mix well to combine.
- Gradually pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Check seasoning; add salt and pepper as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
- Stir in fresh herbs just before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: For added brightness, consider squeezing lemon juice into the soup before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.