Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 h
Total time: 8 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Healthy Meals Inspiration

I love creating wholesome meals that are not only flavorful but also easy to prepare. This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup has become a staple in my kitchen because I can throw in all the ingredients in the morning and let the slow cooker work its magic. Packed with protein-rich lentils and vibrant tomatoes, this soup keeps me full and satisfied. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in more vegetables into my day. Trust me, after trying this recipe once, you'll be hooked on its deliciousness!

Created by

Kate Phillips

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:13:35.087Z

When I first tried making lentil soup in a crockpot, I was amazed at how the flavors melded together as they simmered throughout the day. It’s a wonderful feeling to come home to a house filled with the aroma of herbs and spices. I learned that using dried lentils directly in the crockpot saves time and enhances the soup's texture.

One tip I love to share is to add fresh spinach just before serving to brighten the dish and add an extra nutritional boost. My family always asks for seconds with this hearty soup, proving that healthy can definitely be delicious!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Nutritious and packed with protein from lentils
Easy meal prep that cooks while you’re busy
Flavorful blend of tomatoes and herbs that warms the soul

Ingredient Insights

Lentils are the star of this soup, not just for their protein content but for their unique texture that holds up beautifully during long cooking times. Green or brown lentils work equally well in this recipe, providing a hearty base that will thicken the soup as they cook and absorb the flavors of the broth and spices. When rinsing lentils, it's crucial to check for any small stones or debris, ensuring a smooth, enjoyable soup experience.

Using crushed tomatoes in this recipe adds a rich, tangy depth to the base of the soup. I prefer a brand that has no added sugar for the best results. The acidity in the tomatoes complements the earthy lentils and fresh herbs beautifully, creating a balanced flavor profile. If you're using fresh tomatoes, you might want to peel them and pulse them in a blender for a similar consistency, but remember to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they break down.

Cooking Techniques

The slow cooker is key to developing the flavors in this soup. By cooking on low for eight hours, the ingredients meld together, creating a warm and comforting dish. It's important to avoid opening the lid while it cooks, as this releases heat and can interfere with the cooking process. If time is short, you can cook on high for four hours, but I recommend the low setting for the best flavor.

Adding spinach at the end of cooking preserves its vibrant color and nutritional value. Spinach cooks quickly, so stirring it in just 15 minutes before serving allows it to wilt perfectly without losing its bright green hue. If you’d like to use more robust greens like kale, they can be added earlier in the cooking process since they require more time to soften.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your healthy soup:

Ingredients

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach (optional)

With these ingredients prepared, you’re ready to create a delicious meal!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your soup:

Combine Ingredients

In your crockpot, combine lentils, crushed tomatoes, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Cook on Low

Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 8 hours, or until the lentils are tender.

Add Spinach

About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach if using. Cover again to wilt the spinach.

Enjoy your homemade soup that is nutritious and filling!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this soup with your favorite veggies or spices. Adding a splash of lemon juice before serving can brighten up the flavors as well.

Storage and Freezing

This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you're looking to make a batch ahead of time, it's a great option for freezing; the soup can be kept frozen for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stove for even heat distribution.

When reheating, it’s helpful to add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Stir gently over medium heat until warmed through. The flavors often intensify after sitting, making leftovers even more delightful!

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the flavors of your lentil soup, consider topping it with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving. A squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the flavors and add a refreshing twist that contrasts beautifully with the rich soup base.

Serve this soup with a slice of whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs exceptionally well with hearty, crusty bread that can soak up the delicious broth, making for a satisfying and nutritious dinner option.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time since canned lentils are already cooked. Add them in the last hour of cooking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ Can I substitute the vegetable broth?

Absolutely! Chicken broth or water can also work; just be mindful of seasoning it accordingly.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for gluten-sensitive diets.