This hearty tomato soup is the perfect comfort food for any season. Packed with lentils, vegetables, and pasta, it’s a filling and nutritious meal that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Ready in under an hour, this soup is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. The combination of tender lentils and classic tomato flavor creates a rich and satisfying soup that the whole family will love.
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need for This Delicious Soup?
Here are the simple ingredients required to create this flavorful and hearty tomato soup.
- 1/4 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 14 1/2 oz diced tomatoes
- 2 1/2 cups chicken stock
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 cup star shaped pasta
- salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Hearty Tomato Soup? Step-by-Step
Follow these easy steps to cook the perfect bowl of hearty tomato soup.
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
Cook lentils per package directions until just tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, add onion and sauté until translucent. Add carrots and celery and cook a few minutes more.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Add tomatoes, cooked lentils, stock, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and carrots are tender and the soup has thickened slightly. Remember to remove the bay leaf after simmering.
Step 4: Blend (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother soup, now is the time to use an immersion blender to blend it to your desired consistency. If you like a chunky soup, you can skip this step.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
Add the pasta to the soup and bring it back to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom and scorching.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Remove the soup from the heat, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious homemade soup!
Your Tomato Soup Questions Answered
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock for a delicious vegetarian version of this hearty soup.
How can I store leftover soup?
Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The pasta may absorb some liquid, so you might need to add a splash of stock when reheating.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze it. However, the pasta might become a bit soft upon reheating. For the best texture, you could cook the pasta separately and add it to the soup when serving.
What can I serve with this soup?
This soup is fantastic with a classic grilled cheese sandwich, a side of crusty bread for dipping, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Pro-Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Add Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley at the end adds a wonderful burst of freshness.
- Spice it Up: For a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the onions.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for extra flavor and nutrients.
