Name: Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
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 ounce) diced tomatoes; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 jar (8 ounce) sun-dried tomatoes, sliced; 1 cup cream (or canned coconut milk for dairy-free option); 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley for serving

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The Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup Recipe is an absolute game-changer when it comes to cozy, comforting meals that don’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. Picture a velvety soup packed with tender lentils, the rich tang of sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious creaminess that hugs every spoonful. Whether you’re craving something wholesome after a long day or looking to impress friends with a soulful bowl of goodness, this soup delivers a perfect balance of savory depth and subtle spice. The blend of Italian seasoning, garlic, and parmesan rounds out every bite, making this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser any time of year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Inside a white pot, there are thin slices of light yellow butter melted on the bottom, showing a soft and shiny texture. On top of the melted butter, there is a layer of thin, long sliced shallots with pale purple and white colors, scattered loosely in the center. The background beneath the pot is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple yet essential, these ingredients combine to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that give this soup its irresistible character. From the buttery base that starts things off to the sun-dried tomatoes that add that signature tang, every component plays a star role.

2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds richness and helps caramelize shallots for a deep flavor foundation.
2 shallots, chopped: Provide a sweet and mild onion flavor that softens beautifully when cooked.
2 cloves garlic, chopped: Offers aromatic depth that warms up the palate.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend of herbs that enhances the Mediterranean vibes of the soup.
1 tablespoon tomato paste: Concentrates tomato flavor and adds a subtle tangy sweetness.
Chili flakes: Introduce a gentle heat to balance the creaminess and deepen the flavor.
4 cups broth: Acts as the soup’s savory liquid base—chicken or vegetable broth works perfectly.
1/2 cup red or green lentils: Provide heartiness and a lovely texture, plus plant-based protein.
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes: Bring freshness and acidity that brighten the soup.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.
1 jar (8 ounces) sun-dried tomatoes, sliced: The star ingredient that adds intense tomato flavor and chewiness.
1 cup cream (or canned coconut milk): Makes the soup luxuriously smooth and velvety.
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a savory umami kick that makes every bite sing.
Fresh parsley for serving: A bright, herbal garnish to finish the soup beautifully.

How to Make Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by melting the salted butter in a Dutch oven over medium heat, then add the chopped shallots and garlic. Let them cook gently until they soften and the shallots start to caramelize, about five minutes. This step creates a sweet, fragrant base to build your soup on, unlocking layers of flavor right from the beginning.

Step 2: Build the Tomato and Herb Foundation

Lower the heat and mix in the Italian seasoning, allowing the herbs to release their fragrance. Add the tomato paste and a pinch of chili flakes, then cook for another couple of minutes until the paste thickens. This concentrated tomato-herb combo is where the soup’s bright yet earthy character begins to shine.

Step 3: Add Broth, Lentils, and Diced Tomatoes

Pour in the broth, then add the red or green lentils and canned diced tomatoes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Bring everything to a simmer and let it cook for about 15 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and ready to melt into the soup’s texture. This step is crucial for developing the hearty body that makes this Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup Recipe such a satisfying meal.

Step 4: Stir in Sun-dried Tomatoes, Cream, and Parmesan

Now, fold in the sliced sun-dried tomatoes, pour in the cream or coconut milk, and sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese. Stir gently on low heat, allowing everything to meld into a luxuriously creamy and steamy mixture. This final blend balances tangy, savory, and creamy notes perfectly.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into warm bowls, then sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and herbal freshness. This soup just begs to be paired with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. The combination truly elevates the entire experience of the Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup Recipe.

How to Serve Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup Recipe

A close-up view of a white pot filled with thick, orange-red soup that has a speckled texture from spices and small tomato pieces floating in the liquid. A cinnamon stick is partially submerged on the right side, stirring the soup, showing a creamy surface with swirls of oil and spices. The pot sits on a white marbled surface, with splashes of the soup on the inside rim of the pot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is my go-to garnish because it adds a lovely brightness that contrasts the richness of the soup. You can also try a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or some toasted pine nuts for a bit of crunch. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top intensifies the aromas as you dig in.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with warm, crusty bread — think rustic baguette or sourdough — perfect for dipping and soaking up every creamy drop. If you want something more indulgent, a classic grilled cheese or maybe a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes for a satisfying meal combo that highlights the soup’s richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For casual dinners, serve the soup in large bowls with a hearty bread side on a wooden board. For a dinner party, consider presenting the soup in elegant soup cups topped with a sprinkle of parmesan and a single sun-dried tomato slice. Garnish each with a tiny parsley sprig for a restaurant-worthy finish that invites compliments.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer your leftover Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup Recipe to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for easy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully! Pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to preserve the creamy texture and rich flavors.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from splitting or the lentils from sticking to the bottom. If the soup is too thick after reheating, stir in a splash of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use dried tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes?

Dried tomatoes won’t provide the same texture or intense tanginess as sun-dried tomatoes, which are usually packed in oil or rehydrated. For the best flavor and authenticity, stick with sun-dried tomatoes in this recipe.

Is it possible to make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter for olive oil, use coconut milk instead of cream, and opt for a vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast. You’ll still get that creamy, flavorful sensation without animal products.

Which type of lentils works best?

Both red and green lentils work well in this recipe. Red lentils tend to break down softer and quicker, giving a creamier texture, while green lentils hold their shape better for a bit of bite. Choose based on your texture preference!

Can I prepare this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sauté the aromatics first on the stove, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add the cream and parmesan just before serving to prevent curdling.

What can I do if the soup is too thick?

Add more broth or water a little at a time while reheating until it reaches the consistency you like. The soup should be creamy but still easy to scoop with a spoon.

Final Thoughts

Trying the Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup Recipe is like wrapping yourself in a warm, flavorful hug. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, yet special enough for sharing with friends and family. Trust me, once you make this soup, it will quickly become one of your favorites to turn to whenever you want a hearty, nourishing meal that feels like a little love in a bowl. Go ahead, give it a try—you won’t regret it!