Are you ready to warm your soul with a bowl of comfort? Dive into the rich, smoky flavors of our Smoky Tomato Lentil Soup, a delightful Italian dish that’s not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients! In just 35 minutes, you can create a hearty meal that serves four, perfect for a cozy dinner or a gathering with friends. With its vibrant colors and aromatic spices, this soup is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Don’t miss out on this delicious recipe that’s both satisfying and healthy—your taste buds will thank you!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and diced carrots, sautéing until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and smoked paprika to the pot, stirring quickly to prevent burning. Cook for an additional 30-45 seconds until the garlic becomes fragrant and the spices release their aroma.
- Pour in the rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup seems too thick, add a little more vegetable broth to reach desired consistency.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle into serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves. Serve hot with a crusty bread if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse your lentils before cooking to remove any dirt or impurities. This simple step ensures a cleaner, more flavorful soup.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Take your time when sautéing the onions and carrots. Allowing them to soften and develop their natural sweetness will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
- Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thinner soup, don’t hesitate to add more vegetable broth while it simmers. This allows you to customize the consistency to your liking.
- Experiment with Spices: While smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth, feel free to experiment with other spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick.
- Garnish for Freshness: Fresh basil not only adds a pop of color but also a burst of freshness. Don’t skip this step—it's the finishing touch that elevates your soup!
- Pair with Bread: Serve your soup with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s perfect for dipping and will make your dining experience even more enjoyable.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
