Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup red lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 cup coconut milk; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup during the cooler months. Not only is it warming and comforting, but it’s also packed with nutrients and flavor. The combination of creamy tomatoes and hearty lentils creates a rich texture that is simply irresistible. I often serve this with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week. This recipe is not only easy to whip up but is great for meal prep too, as it keeps well in the fridge for several days.

Created by

Morgan Reeves

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:43:10.189Z

When I first created this Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup, I was looking for a dish that combined comfort and nutrition. I experimented with adding lentils to the classic tomato base, and the results were fantastic. The protein from the lentils makes this soup hearty enough to be a meal on its own. Each spoonful is not only delicious but also wholesome, which is why it’s become a staple in our household.

One tip I’d like to share is to blend a portion of the soup to enhance its creaminess while keeping some lentils whole for texture. This method not only thickens the soup beautifully but also allows the flavors to meld together in the most delightful way. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this dish as much as I do!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that is both satisfying and nourishing
Packed with protein and fiber from lentils for a filling meal
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite spices and veggies

      

Understanding Lentils

Red lentils are a perfect choice for this creamy soup due to their quick cooking time and ability to break down into a smooth texture. Unlike other lentils, red varieties cook in about 15-20 minutes, which helps them blend seamlessly into the soup. Their mild flavor allows the other ingredients, particularly the tomatoes and spices, to shine while still providing ample protein and fiber to keep you feeling full.

When using lentils in this recipe, be sure to rinse them thoroughly under cold water before adding them to the pot. This step helps remove any dust or impurities that may affect the overall flavor. If you're short on time or want to experiment, you can substitute with yellow lentils; just keep in mind that they might take a little longer to cook and won't break down quite the same way.

Coconut Milk Alternatives

The addition of coconut milk not only enhances the creamy texture of this soup but also balances the acidity of the tomatoes with its subtle sweetness. If you prefer a lighter option, consider using unsweetened almond milk or oat milk; however, the richness will be slightly diminished. Adding a tablespoon of nutritional yeast can help bring back some of that creamy depth if you choose to swap out coconut milk.

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice or a pinch of turmeric when incorporating coconut milk. This will brighten up the soup while complementing the comforting profile of the dish. Adjust the seasoning after adding milk as it may affect the saltiness of the dish; taste and add more salt or a little chili powder if you want extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

Serving this creamy tomato lentil soup with crusty bread not only adds a delightful crunch but also makes for an incredibly satisfying meal. You can opt for sourdough or a whole grain loaf, both of which will absorb the flavors beautifully. Additionally, topping the soup with fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can provide a lovely fresh contrast to the richness.

For a more substantial meal, consider adding a side salad featuring mixed greens, sliced cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette. This helps balance the richness of the soup while adding an extra layer of texture. And if you want to enhance the nutritional value even further, add some steamed leafy greens such as kale or spinach directly into the soup before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup:

Ingredients

1 cup red lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 cup coconut milk
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Creamy Tomato Lentil Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Lentils and Spices

Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with juices), dried basil, oregano, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Pour in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Blend Part of the Soup

Using an immersion blender, blend about half of the soup until creamy while leaving some lentils whole for texture. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately, or let it cool and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the soup. Additionally, feel free to mix in some spinach or kale for an extra nutritional boost.

Meal Prep and Storage

This creamy tomato lentil soup is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Make sure to leave some space at the top, as the soup may expand when frozen. This soup freezes well too; just remember to thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

When reheating, you might notice that the soup thickens slightly. Simply add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Stir it over medium heat on the stove until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to avoid scorching.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find the soup too thick after blending, just add additional vegetable broth gradually until it reaches your desired creamy texture. Conversely, if the consistency is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken the mixture. The key is to balance the moisture while preserving the soup's rich flavors.

It's also essential to keep an eye on the seasoning. Always taste while cooking, particularly after blending and adding coconut milk, as flavors can mellow out. You might want to adjust with extra herbs, spices, or a touch of acidity, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to brighten up the soup.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to customize this recipe by incorporating your favorite herbs and spices. For a smoky flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or chipotle powder. If you enjoy a hint of sweetness, a teaspoon of sugar or maple syrup can balance the acidity from the tomatoes beautifully.

You can also add diced vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini during the sautéing phase. Just be sure to dice them evenly for even cooking, and increase the simmer time slightly to ensure all vegetables are tender and well incorporated in the final soup.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, but keep in mind that different lentils have different cooking times. Red lentils are best for a creamy texture.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Yes, using coconut milk and vegetable broth keeps this soup vegan-friendly.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well, just be sure to leave some space in the container as it may expand.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs great with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.