Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup

Name: Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 ribs celery, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Wellness Ideas

I love this Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup because it’s the perfect hands-off meal for busy days. With just a few simple ingredients and my trusty slow cooker, I can create a hearty, nutritious dish that warms me from the inside out. The lentils provide protein and fiber, while the vibrant tomatoes add brightness and flavor. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to make, allowing me to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying my evening with family or friends.

Created by

Marnie Calder

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:01:35.334Z

When I first tried making lentil soup in my crockpot, I was amazed by how the flavors developed over time. The slow cooking process allows the spices and vegetables to blend beautifully, creating a rich and comforting flavor. I love throwing everything into the pot in the morning, then coming home to a warm, inviting aroma that fills the house.

I’ve found that using vegetable broth instead of water not only enhances the taste but also adds depth to the overall dish. Plus, I find that the combination of lentils and tomatoes provides a satisfying texture that keeps me returning for seconds!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and packed with plant-based protein
Easy hands-off cooking in a crockpot
Great for meal prep and leftovers
Delicious, hearty flavor that everyone will enjoy

      

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are a wonderful source of plant-based protein and fiber, which contribute to both satiety and nourishment in this soup. Unlike other legumes, lentils do not require soaking, making them a convenient choice for slow cooking. When cooked in the crockpot, they become tender and slightly creamy, blending beautifully with the other ingredients. For this recipe, I recommend using green or brown lentils, as they maintain their shape well and add a hearty texture to the soup.

The specific blend of seasonings—basil and oregano—complements the earthiness of the lentils and the acidity of the tomatoes. These herbs enhance the overall flavor profile, creating a warm, inviting dish. I love adding a dash of smoked paprika for an unexpected depth, but you can easily swap it with cumin for a different aromatic experience.

Crockpot Cooking Tips

Using a crockpot allows flavors to meld together beautifully, but there are a few tips for optimal results. When setting your crockpot, aim for low heat to slowly develop the soup's flavor over 6-8 hours. If you're in a pinch and cooking on high, keep an eye on the lentils as they usually become tender in about 3-4 hours. You’ll know they’re done when they appear soft and slightly swollen, without any crunch.

To ensure the best texture, add the salt only after cooking. Salting the lentils too early can make them tough. Adjust the seasoning at the end of the cooking time, starting with a small pinch, as you can always add more, but it’s hard to fix if you oversalt.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your own delicious Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup!

Ingredients

1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 ribs celery, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

You can also add your favorite vegetables or spices to customize the soup to your taste!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious soup.

Combine Ingredients

In the slow cooker, combine the lentils, diced tomatoes, chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, vegetable broth, basil, and oregano. Stir well to combine.

Cook

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender.

Season

Before serving, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve

Enjoy your hearty tomato lentil soup warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy your soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of lemon juice just before serving, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.

Storage and Meal Prep

This Healthy Crockpot Tomato Lentil Soup is perfect for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. This soup also freezes beautifully—let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

For those looking for a quick grab-and-go option, consider portioning the soup into single-serving containers before chilling. This way, you’ll have easy access to nutritious meals throughout the week. Just remember to leave some space in the container for the soup to expand when frozen.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your soup experience, consider pairing it with a crusty piece of whole-grain bread or a fresh side salad. A dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of feta can also add creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements the soup's richness. For a bit of heat, try serving with a splash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes on top.

If you want to introduce more vegetables into the mix, feel free to add chopped spinach or kale during the last hour of cooking. This not only boosts the soup's nutrition but also adds a vibrant color that makes the dish visually appealing. Remember, about 1-2 cups of fresh greens is a nice addition without overwhelming the existing flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can. If using canned lentils, reduce the cooking time significantly as they are already cooked.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even over rice for a heartier meal.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days in an airtight container.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.