One-Pot Tomato Basil Lentil Soup with Pasta

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 medium yellow onion
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup dried red lentils
• 1 cup crushed tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp salt(optional)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper(optional)
• 1/3 cup small pasta (ditalini or small shells)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil
• 1 tbsp lemon juice(optional)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prep (10 minutes): Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Rinse the lentils quickly under cold water. Chop basil if needed.

2. 2

   In a 1-pot saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion for 3–4 minutes until softened, then stir in garlic and oregano for 30 seconds.

3. 3

   Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 18–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender.

4. 4

   Stir in the small pasta and simmer for 8–10 minutes, until pasta is cooked and soup thickens.

5. 5

   Turn off heat and stir in basil. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if using. Serve hot.