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 lentils; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Light Kitchen

I absolutely love making this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup! It has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on chilly days when I crave something warm and comforting. With the simplicity of loading ingredients into my crockpot and letting the flavors meld together, I always end up with a hearty, nutritious meal that delights everyone at the table. The combination of lentils, tomatoes, and spices creates a deliciously satisfying dish that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber!

Created by

Jessamine Ford

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:01:35.517Z

Every time I make this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup, it brings back memories of cozy evenings spent with my family. The aroma fills my kitchen and makes me feel like I'm nurturing everyone at the table. I always use dried lentils, which I find add a beautiful texture to the soup while being high in protein and fiber. This method works wonders; you can toss everything in, set it, and forget it until dinner!

One particular tip I've learned is to include a splash of balsamic vinegar just before serving. This tiny addition significantly enhances the flavors, giving the soup a depth that keeps everyone coming back for seconds. It's truly a game-changer that elevates this humble soup to something spectacular!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, savory flavors that warm you from the inside out
Packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a guilt-free indulgence
Easily customizable to suit your taste preferences or pantry staples

      

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are the star of this soup, providing not only protein but also a hearty texture. They cook down beautifully, absorbing the flavors of the broth and spices. Opt for green or brown lentils, as they hold their shape better than red lentils during slow cooking. When rinsing, make sure to check for small stones or debris, as this can occasionally happen with dried lentils.

Using dried lentils in this recipe eliminates the need for pre-soaking, allowing for a convenient and quick prep. They will soften and thicken the soup as it cooks, contributing to the overall creaminess without the addition of dairy. If you're looking to use canned lentils instead, you can add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a similar effect.

Boosting Flavors

The aromatics in this recipe—onion, garlic, carrots, and celery—are essential for building a flavorful base. Sautéing these vegetables before adding them to the crockpot can enhance their sweetness and depth of flavor, but it’s not necessary for success. If pressed for time, you can add them raw, and they will still impart their essence into the soup as it cooks.

Spices that you incorporate, such as thyme and basil, bring layers of flavor, but feel free to experiment. A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add a delightful smoky or spicy kick, respectively. Fresh herbs can be added at the end for brightness, but dried herbs work wonderfully throughout the cooking process.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a hearty and healthy soup:

Main Ingredients

1 cup dried lentils
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preferences!

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your delicious soup:

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water to remove any debris. Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Mince the garlic and set everything aside.

Combine in Crockpot

In your crockpot, combine the lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), diced onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, vegetable broth, thyme, basil, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Set and Forget

Cover the crockpot and set it on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. Allow the soup to cook until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Finish and Serve

Once cooking is complete, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the warm soup in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your healthy meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating a bay leaf during cooking. Just remember to remove it before serving!

Serving Suggestions

This soup is versatile when it comes to serving. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a richer dish, consider topping it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese. The creamy texture complements the savory soup wonderfully and adds a burst of flavor.

If you're feeling adventurous, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro right before serving to enhance its fresh taste. A squeeze of lemon juice can also elevate the dish, adding brightness that cuts through the savory richness of the lentils.

Storage and Meal Prep

This soup stores exceptionally well, making it a great option for meal prep. Once cooled, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. Simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much during storage.

If you’d like to prepare it for later enjoyment, consider freezing portions. Ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some room for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Remember to label the bags with the date for easy identification later.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned lentils, but reduce the cooking time as they are already cooked. Add them in the last 30 minutes only.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers.

→ How do I thicken the soup?

You can mash some of the lentils with a fork or blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients used are gluten-free, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.