Tomato soup with lentils

Tomato and Lentil Soup: a warm hug in every bowl

I propose a simple and delicious recipe that combines the rich flavors of tomatoes with the nutrient-packed consistency of lentils. This tomato and lentil soup is not only nourishing but also comforting, perfect for chilly days or moments when you need a quick yet satisfying meal.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:

- 600 ml chicken or vegetable broth (preferably homemade for an authentic taste)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 medium onions
- 2-3 cloves of garlic
- a few sprigs of fresh basil (reserve some leaves for decoration)
- 115 g red or green lentils (red lentils cook faster)
- 400 g canned tomatoes in puree (or, if in season, you can use fresh tomatoes)
- 100 g soft cheese (goat cheese or ricotta are excellent choices)
- salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Step by step: how to prepare this tomato and lentil soup

1. Prepare the vegetable or chicken broth: Place a pot with the vegetable or chicken broth over medium heat. It is essential that the broth is warm when you add it to the mix, to help meld the flavors.

2. Heating the oil: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Extra virgin olive oil not only adds wonderful flavor but also nutritional benefits.

3. Sauté the onion and garlic: Peel the onion and garlic. Chop the onion into small cubes and crush the garlic cloves. Add them to the heated oil and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This step is crucial as sautéing the onion and garlic releases deep flavors that will enrich the soup.

4. Preparing the basil: Wash and dry the basil leaves. Set aside a few leaves for decoration, and finely chop the rest until you have a full tablespoon. Basil is a versatile ingredient that can transform a simple recipe into a more sophisticated culinary experience.

5. Add the lentils and tomatoes: Rinse the lentils under cold running water to remove impurities. Add the lentils to the pot along with the canned tomatoes and vegetable or chicken broth. Mix the ingredients well to integrate them.

6. Bring the soup to a boil: Bringing the soup to a boil is important to activate the flavors. Once it starts to boil, cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 15 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Add the basil: Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the chopped basil to the soup. This detail will enhance the fresh aroma of the dish!

8. Prepare the soft cheese: In a bowl, crumble the soft cheese with a fork. This will add a creamy and delicious texture to your soup. Add the remaining chopped basil to the cheese for an extra flavor boost.

9. Blend the soup: Once the lentils are cooked and the tomatoes have softened, use an immersion blender to turn the soup into a smooth puree. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can use a regular blender, but make sure to let the soup cool slightly before processing. Add salt and pepper to taste.

10. Serving: Divide the soup into bowls and add a few spoonfuls of soft cheese with basil on top of each bowl. Garnish with a few remaining fresh basil leaves. This not only enhances the dish's appearance but also adds a touch of freshness.

Serving suggestions:

This tomato and lentil soup pairs perfectly with a slice of garlic toast or a fresh green salad with lemon. Additionally, a bottle of dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal, bringing a balance of flavors.

Nutritional benefits:

This soup is packed with antioxidants, thanks to the tomatoes, which are rich in lycopene, a compound that helps protect cells from free radicals. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and iron, while basil brings an additional boost of essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use white or black lentils? Yes, but the cooking time will change. White or black lentils require a longer cooking time compared to red lentils.

2. How can I make the soup spicier? You can add a bit of chili pepper or chili flakes during the sautéing of the onion and garlic for a spicy kick.

3. Are there vegan options for this soup? Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and replace the cheese with a mixture of blended tofu and some nutritional yeast for a similar taste.

4. How can I store the soup? This soup keeps excellently in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it in portions for a quick meal in the future.

Possible variations:

Add vegetables like carrots or celery to enhance the flavor and nutrition. You can also experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for a different note.

In conclusion, the tomato and lentil soup is a recipe that will not only warm your soul but will also become a family favorite. It is an excellent choice for a quick and healthy meal, rich in flavors and textures. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: 600 ml chicken or vegetable broth, 2 tablespoons olive oil, 3 medium onions, 2-3 cloves of garlic, a few sprigs of fresh basil, 115 g red or green lentils, 400 g canned tomatoes in juice, 100 g soft cheese, salt and black pepper to taste.

 Tags:  chicken soup lentils tomatoes cheese