Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils
Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Inspiration
I love how comforting and hearty this Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils dish is. It’s a perfect blend of creamy textures and rich flavors that make every bite satisfying. I usually whip this up for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner during chilly evenings. The best part is how simple it is to prepare; you can have this nutritious meal on your table in about 30 minutes! Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become a favorite in your home.
When I first came across the idea of combining white beans and lentils, I was intrigued by how adaptable and nutritious this dish could be. The creaminess from the beans perfectly balances the tang from the tomatoes, creating a delightful flavor combination. I often experiment with different spices and herbs to elevate the dish even further, like adding a pinch of smoked paprika for depth.
One tip I’d share is to use freshly cooked lentils for this recipe instead of canned; it really makes a difference in texture and taste. Plus, making your lentils from scratch allows you more control over the seasoning. You won't believe how simple yet satisfying this homemade meal can be!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy texture that warms your soul
- Hearty and nutritious, thanks to beans and lentils
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Understanding the Ingredients
The combination of green or brown lentils with white beans creates a protein-packed base for this dish. Lentils cook quickly and provide a hearty texture, while the white beans add creaminess and a subtle sweetness. Choosing to use canned white beans saves preparation time without sacrificing nutrition. If you prefer, you can use homestyle beans or even cook your own from dried beans. Just remember to soak them overnight if going the dried route, as this will help them cook to the perfect tender consistency.
Crushed tomatoes play a crucial role in adding depth to the dish. They not only provide moisture, but also enrich the flavors through their natural sweetness and acidity. If you have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can use about 2-3 cups of diced tomatoes; just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as fresh tomatoes may require a bit longer to break down and meld into the dish.
Cooking Techniques for Success
When sautéing the onion and garlic, ensure your olive oil is heated over medium heat. The key here is to achieve a balance – you want to soft and translucent onion without browning it too much, which can lead to a bitter flavor. Keep an eye on them, stirring occasionally for around 5 minutes. If garlic starts to brown earlier, lower the heat, as burnt garlic can overpower the entire dish.
Mixing the lentils with the tomato base after they are cooked allows them to absorb all those rich flavors. After draining the excess broth from lentils, a good practice is to reserve a little in case your dish gets too thick as it simmers; you can add it back in to achieve your desired consistency. Trust me, this little tip can prevent serving a dry dish!
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious and nutritious dish!
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
You can feel free to adjust the ingredientsbased on your taste preferences!
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make your Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils!
Cook the Lentils
In a pot, combine rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
Sauté Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Combine Ingredients
Add the crushed tomatoes, white beans, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Combine with Lentils
Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess broth and mix them into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Stir gently and let simmer for 5 more minutes.
Serve warm, garnished with parsley and cheese if desired.
Pro Tips
- For an extra creamy texture, try blending a portion of the white beans before adding them to the dish.
Storing and Freezing
This Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils dish makes fantastic leftovers! To store, simply allow it to cool, then transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, you can add a splash of vegetable broth to loosen the mixture and prevent it from drying out. Heat it slowly on the stove over low heat, or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.
For longer storage, this dish freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight and reheat thoroughly. You might find that the flavors have intensified after freezing, making it even more satisfying!
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful presentation, serve this dish hot in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. You can also sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top, adding a savory note that complements the creamy mixture. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the dish while giving it an extra kick.
This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of the lentils, while bread can be used for dipping, making for a cozy, rustic meal. You can also serve it over cooked grains such as quinoa or brown rice for a wholesome bowl meal that is filling and nutritious.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh-cooked lentils enhance the texture and flavor.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, it freezes well. Just thaw and reheat carefully.
→ What variations can I try?
Feel free to add different vegetables or spices according to your preference!
Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils
I love how comforting and hearty this Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils dish is. It’s a perfect blend of creamy textures and rich flavors that make every bite satisfying. I usually whip this up for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner during chilly evenings. The best part is how simple it is to prepare; you can have this nutritious meal on your table in about 30 minutes! Trust me, once you try it, this dish will become a favorite in your home.
Created by: Kate Phillips
Recipe Type: Simple Healthy Meals Inspiration
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
How-To Steps
In a pot, combine rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes until tender.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the crushed tomatoes, white beans, dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess broth and mix them into the skillet with the tomato mixture. Stir gently and let simmer for 5 more minutes.
Extra Tips
- For an extra creamy texture, try blending a portion of the white beans before adding them to the dish.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 60g
- Dietary Fiber: 19g
- Sugars: 7g
- Protein: 22g