Let me tell you, Tomato Basil Lentil Soup is one of my absolute favorites! It’s not just any soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. I whip it up whenever I need a hearty, nutritious meal that’s super satisfying and easy to make. The combination of lentils, tomatoes, and fresh basil creates a flavor explosion that just makes me feel good inside. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, so you know you’re doing something great for your body while indulging in that comforting taste.
This soup is perfect for any meal of the day—lunch, dinner, or even a cozy snack on a chilly evening! I love serving it with some crusty bread on the side, and trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s simmering is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. So, whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a gathering, this recipe is sure to please all the taste buds. Let’s dive into making this delightful dish!
Ingredients for Tomato Basil Lentil Soup
- 2 cups lentils, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth, preferably low-sodium
- 2 cups diced tomatoes, canned or fresh
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil, or more for a stronger flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for sautéing
- Salt and pepper to taste, don’t be shy!
How to Prepare Tomato Basil Lentil Soup
Making this delicious Tomato Basil Lentil Soup is easier than you might think! I promise, you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a bowl of warmth ready to enjoy in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water. This helps remove any dirt or debris, and trust me, it’s a quick step that makes a difference!
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sauté, but not so hot that the garlic burns—no one wants bitter soup!
- Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. The smell is heavenly, and you’ll know it’s time to move on when the onion is translucent.
- Next, toss in the diced tomatoes, rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, dried basil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine. It’s starting to look like soup already!
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens—let those flavors meld together!
- If you prefer a smoother texture, feel free to blend the soup using an immersion blender or carefully transferring it to a regular blender in batches. Just be cautious, it’s hot!
- Finally, serve it hot and enjoy every comforting spoonful. I love adding a sprinkle of fresh basil on top for that extra pop of flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—whip it up in just 15 minutes of prep time!
- Hearty and filling, thanks to the protein-packed lentils.
- Nutritious ingredients that make you feel good inside.
- Deliciously flavorful with the perfect balance of tomatoes and basil.
- Versatile—enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or a cozy snack.
- Freezes beautifully, so you can stock up for later indulgence.
- Simple and straightforward, making it great for cooks of all levels.
Tips for Success
Now, let me share some of my best tips to make sure your Tomato Basil Lentil Soup turns out absolutely perfect every time!
- Seasoning is key: Don’t be afraid to taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. Sometimes a little extra seasoning can really elevate the flavors, so trust your palate!
- Vegetable variety: Feel free to toss in extra veggies like carrots, celery, or spinach. They’ll add even more nutrition and flavor. Just chop them up and throw them in with the tomatoes!
- Blending options: If you like your soup a bit smoother, blending is the way to go! Use an immersion blender right in the pot for convenience, or carefully blend in batches if using a regular blender. Just remember to let it cool slightly before blending to avoid any splatters—hot soup can be tricky!
- Storage tips: This soup stores beautifully! Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up. And if you want to freeze it, make sure to portion it out so you can easily grab a bowl whenever you want!
- Reheating: When you reheat, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up a bit; it can thicken in the fridge. Heat gently on the stovetop for the best results, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to savor that goodness!
Keep these tips in mind, and I promise your soup will be a hit every single time. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my Tomato Basil Lentil Soup. Keep in mind that these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but this will give you a great idea of what you’re getting in each delicious bowl!
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This soup is not just comforting; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients! With a good balance of protein and fiber, it’s perfect for a healthy meal that keeps you full and satisfied. Enjoy the goodness!
FAQ About Tomato Basil Lentil Soup
I know you might have some questions about my Tomato Basil Lentil Soup, so let’s clear up any confusion! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my go-to answers.
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, canned lentils are a great shortcut. Just rinse and drain them, and add them to the pot a little later in the cooking process since they don’t need as much time to cook.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
No worries! Dried basil works just fine. I usually recommend using about a teaspoon of dried basil for every tablespoon of fresh. Just remember, dried herbs are often more concentrated, so adjust to your taste!
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Just toss all the ingredients into your slow cooker (except for the seasoning), and let it cook on low for about 6-8 hours. It’s a fantastic way to let those flavors develop while you go about your day!
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, my Tomato Basil Lentil Soup is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure to check your vegetable broth, as some brands may contain gluten.
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you like a little heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño when you sauté the onion and garlic. It’ll give your soup a nice kick!
Can I add meat to this soup?
Of course! If you’re not keeping it vegan, feel free to add some cooked sausage or shredded chicken. Just stir it in before serving so it heats through. It’ll add a whole new dimension to the flavor!
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
This soup keeps well in the fridge for about 5 days. Just make sure it’s stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, which is perfect for meal prep!
Can I use other types of legumes?
Definitely! If you want to experiment, you can try using chickpeas or black beans instead of lentils. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
I recommend reheating on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, and stir occasionally until it’s warmed through. You want to keep that delicious flavor intact!
If you have any other questions or need tips, feel free to reach out! I love sharing my cooking adventures with you, and I’m here to help you make this soup a hit in your kitchen!
Variations of Tomato Basil Lentil Soup
If you’re like me, you love to play around with recipes and make them your own! This Tomato Basil Lentil Soup is super versatile, and I can’t wait to share some of my favorite variations that will keep things exciting in your kitchen.
- Veggie Delight: Add a cup of chopped carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the mix for a colorful and nutritious boost. They’ll add great texture and flavor!
- Spicy Twist: If you’re craving some heat, toss in a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper while sautéing the onion and garlic. It’ll give your soup a nice kick!
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Try adding fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant twist. Just a few sprigs can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.
- Creamy Comfort: For a creamier version, stir in some coconut milk or cashew cream towards the end of cooking. It adds richness and a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the tomatoes.
- Chickpea Power: Swap out half of the lentils for a can of drained chickpeas. They’ll add a different texture and flavor while still keeping the soup hearty and satisfying!
- Italian Flair: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a teaspoon of Italian seasoning for a more robust flavor profile. It’s like a hug from Italy in every bite!
- Sweet Potato Surprise: Dice up a sweet potato and add it in with the lentils. It will add a natural sweetness and make the soup even more filling.
Feel free to mix and match these ideas based on what you have on hand or what sounds good to you. Cooking should be fun, and I can’t wait for you to find your own favorite twist on this delicious soup!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious Tomato Basil Lentil Soup fresh for later! I always like to make a big batch, so knowing how to store and reheat it properly is essential. Here’s what I do!
- Storage: Once your soup has cooled down a bit, transfer it into an airtight container. I usually portion it out into smaller containers so I can grab just what I need. It’ll stay good in the fridge for about 5 days. Just make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it up, or you might end up with a soggy mess!
- Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, this soup freezes beautifully! Just scoop it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (make sure to label them with the date). It’ll last for about 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw it in the fridge overnight.
When it comes to reheating your soup, I recommend keeping it simple to preserve all those lovely flavors:
- Stovetop: Pour your soup into a pot and heat it over low to medium heat. Add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up, especially if it thickened in the fridge. Stir it occasionally as it warms up, and watch that delicious aroma fill your kitchen again!
- Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat it in the microwave. Just pour a portion into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate (to avoid splatters), and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until it’s heated through. Make sure it’s nice and hot all the way to the center!
And there you have it—easy storage and reheating tips to ensure your Tomato Basil Lentil Soup remains as tasty as the day you made it. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Print
Tomato Basil Lentil Soup: 7 Cozy Reasons to Love It
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and nutritious soup made with tomatoes, basil, and lentils.
Ingredients
- 2 cups lentils
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add diced tomatoes, lentils, vegetable broth, basil, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Blend the soup for a smoother texture, if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Add more vegetables for extra nutrition.
- This soup freezes well.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Tomato Basil Lentil Soup, lentil soup, vegan soup, healthy soup