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Creamy Tomato Basil Lentil Skillet Recipe

Creamy Tomato Basil Lentil Skillet Recipe
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★★★★★

4.8 from 20 reviews

A wholesome and creamy tomato basil lentil skillet dish, featuring tender lentils simmered with fresh vegetables and a rich tomato basil sauce enriched with cream. This vegetarian recipe is easy to prepare, packed with protein and fiber, and perfect for a comforting main course or side dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Lentils & Vegetables

  • 1 cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 1 celery stalk, diced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste

Tomato Basil Sauce

  • 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup vegetable broth
  • ¼ cup heavy cream or coconut cream
  • ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • Salt & pepper, to taste

Optional Toppings

  • Grated Parmesan or crumbled feta
  • Extra fresh basil

Instructions

  1. Cook the Lentils: In a medium saucepan, add the rinsed lentils and cover them with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered until the lentils are tender, about 20–25 minutes. Drain any excess water as needed.
  2. Sauté the Veggies: While the lentils cook, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
  3. Add Sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 5–7 minutes so the flavors meld together.
  4. Add Lentils & Cream: Mix the cooked lentils into the skillet with the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut cream), stirring to combine. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until the skillet is heated through and creamy. Finally, stir in the chopped fresh basil and balsamic vinegar for brightness.
  5. Finish & Serve: Serve the creamy tomato basil lentil skillet warm. Garnish with grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese and additional fresh basil leaves if desired. This dish works well as a hearty vegetarian main or a tasty side.

Notes

  • To make this dish vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the Parmesan or feta toppings.
  • You can use either green or brown lentils as both hold their shape well during cooking.
  • Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.
  • Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Nutrition

Keywords: lentils, tomato basil skillet, creamy lentil dish, vegetarian main course, healthy lentil recipe

Find it online: https://maicook.com/creamy-tomato-basil-lentil-skillet-recipe-2/