Lentil-Tomato Soup
A hearty, nutritious lentil-tomato soup packed with flavors of herbs and vegetables, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for vegetarians seeking a filling, wholesome dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients except the tomatoes into a large pot and simmer for 3 hours.
- Add more water if needed during cooking.
- Stir in the tomatoes at the end of cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding the lentils and water. You can substitute dried lentils with canned ones; just reduce the cooking time accordingly. If you prefer a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup. Feel free to add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lentil-tomato soup with a side of crusty bread or Crostini Toasts for a comforting meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of yogurt can enhance the flavors. For a complete dinner, pair it with a light salad or browse more Mediterranean recipes to complement the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup, then warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave. This soup also freezes well; portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil-Tomato Soup contains roughly 206 calories, with 8g protein, 34g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (206% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value), and iron (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of lentils for this soup?
Yes, you can use green or brown lentils instead of dried lentils, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils will cook faster and create a creamier texture, so adjust the simmer time accordingly. Be mindful that each type offers a slightly different flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Just stir in the tomatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking to retain their flavor and texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You can also serve the soup with a side of hot sauce for those who like to spice things up. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a personalized touch.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).