Ingredients
– 2 tablespoons salted butter Adds richness and helps sauté the aromatics for a flavorful base.
– 2 chopped shallots Provides a sweet, mild onion flavor that caramelizes and deepens the soup’s taste.
– 2 cloves garlic Infuses a pungent, aromatic note that enhances the overall savoriness of the soup.
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (a blend of dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and sage) Brings herbal warmth and complexity to the dish for an authentic Italian-inspired vibe.
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste Concentrates the tomato flavor and thickens the soup for a robust base.
– Chili flakes (amount to taste) Adds a hint of heat to balance the creaminess and keep things exciting.
– 4 cups broth (typically chicken broth) Forms the liquid foundation, infusing the soup with savory depth; use vegetable broth for a vegan option.
– 1/2 cup red or green lentils The star ingredient, providing protein, fiber, and a creamy texture when cooked.
– 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes Contributes acidity and freshness, enhancing the tomato flavor profile.
– Salt and pepper (to taste) Seasoning essentials that balance flavors and bring out the natural tastes of the ingredients.
– 1 jar (8 ounces) oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes Delivers intense, tangy sweetness and umami that makes this soup unique.
– 1 cup cream or canned coconut milk Creates the creamy texture; coconut milk is a great vegan substitute for dairy-free versions.
– 3/4 cup parmesan cheese Melts in to add a nutty, cheesy richness, though you can omit for vegan adaptations.
– Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish) Adds a fresh, bright finish to the soup just before serving.
Instructions
First Step: Prep and Sauté Aromatics Begin by melting 2 tablespoons of salted butter in a large pot over medium heat. This takes about 1-2 minutes to get started. Add 2 chopped shallots and 2 cloves of garlic, cooking them until the shallots caramelize, which should take around 5 minutes. This step builds a flavorful base, so stir occasionally to avoid burning; for a vegan option, swap butter for olive oil.
Second Step: Add Seasonings and Tomato Paste Once your aromatics are ready, stir in 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning for that herbal punch. Follow with 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and a pinch of chili flakes, cooking everything together until it thickens, about 2 minutes. This helps develop a deep, savory flavor that makes the lentil soup stand out; adjust the heat to low if it starts to stick.
Third Step: Simmer the Lentils and Tomatoes Pour in 4 cups of broth, 1/2 cup of red or green lentils, 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15 minutes until the lentils are tender, stirring now and then; if you’re using a pressure cooker, this step cuts down to about 8 minutes on high pressure for faster results.
Fourth Step: Blend for Creaminess After simmering, add 1 jar (8 ounces) of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, 1 cup of cream or canned coconut milk, and 3/4 cup of parmesan cheese. Stir continuously over low heat until the soup becomes creamy and heated through, which takes 5 to 10 minutes. Use an immersion blender to partially or fully purée the soup for that smooth texture, remembering to be careful with hot liquids; for dietary needs, the coconut milk keeps it vegan and light.
Final Step: Finish and Serve Once creamy, remove the pot from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve the soup hot, portioning it into bowls for six people, and pair it with warm crusty bread or a fresh grilled corn salad for a complete meal. This creamy lentil sun dried tomato soup is ready in about 30-40 minutes total, making it perfect for busy nights, and you can tweak seasonings at the end for personal taste.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
🍅 Use oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes for richer flavor and texture.
🧀 Stir parmesan in slowly for a silky, creamy finish.
🍲 Serve with crusty bread or grilled cheese for a complete comforting meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 294
