Description
A rich and creamy lentil soup infused with the vibrant flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and Italian herbs. This comforting dish features tender lentils simmered with tomatoes and broth, finished with cream and parmesan for a luscious texture, perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
- 2 shallots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, chopped
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Chili flakes, to taste
- 4 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
- 1/2 cup red or green lentils
- 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 jar (8 ounces) sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 1 cup cream or canned coconut milk
- 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Shallots and Garlic: Melt the butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped shallots and garlic along with Italian seasoning. Cook until the shallots begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
- Add Tomato Paste and Chili Flakes: Reduce heat to low. Stir in tomato paste and chili flakes and cook for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens, releasing deep flavors.
- Simmer Lentils and Tomatoes: Add broth, lentils, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Season with salt and black pepper. Increase heat back to medium and simmer for 15 minutes or until lentils are tender.
- Incorporate Sun-dried Tomatoes and Cream: Stir in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes, cream, and grated parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes until the soup is creamy and heated through.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich on the side for a complete meal.
Notes
- Italian seasoning can be a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and marjoram.
- Use cream for a richer soup or canned coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
- Adjust chili flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- Red lentils cook faster and break down more than green lentils, resulting in a slightly different texture.
- For a thicker soup, cook an additional 5 minutes or blend part of the soup before adding cream and cheese.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Keywords: lentil soup, creamy soup, sun-dried tomato, Italian seasoning, comfort food
