Name: Creamy Marry Me Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: Oil from a jar of sundried tomatoes (for cooking); 1 cup dry black, brown or green lentils (2.5 cups cooked, or 2 cans drained and rinsed); 1 small red onion (finely diced); 6 cloves garlic (crushed); 2 tsp fennel seeds (crushed); 1 tbsp Italian seasoning; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 3 tbsp tomato paste; 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (chopped); 2 cups vegetable stock; 3/4 cup heavy (double) cream; 1 cup parmesan, pecorino or Italian hard cheese; 1 bunch basil (chopped); Lemon wedges (for squeezing)

Why Make This Recipe

Creamy Marry Me Lentils are not just another lentil dish; they are a delightful mix of flavors that can win over anyone’s heart. This recipe is creamy, savory, and packed with nutrients, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. Lentils are a fantastic source of protein and fiber, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. Plus, it is simple to make and it satisfies both your taste buds and your hunger.

🧰 Kitchen tools commonly used in similar recipes

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How to Make Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Ingredients:

Oil from a jar of sundried tomatoes (for cooking)
1 cup dry black, brown or green lentils (2.5 cups cooked, or 2 cans drained and rinsed)
1 small red onion (finely diced)
6 cloves garlic (crushed)
2 tsp fennel seeds (crushed)
1 tbsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
3 tbsp tomato paste
1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (chopped)
2 cups vegetable stock
3/4 cup heavy (double) cream
1 cup parmesan, pecorino or Italian hard cheese
1 bunch basil (chopped)
Lemon wedges (for squeezing)

Directions:

If you are cooking lentils from dry, start by cooking them. For black lentils, use an Instant Pot with 1 cup of lentils and 1.75 cups of salted water. Cook on HIGH for 9 minutes, followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. On the stovetop, use 1 cup of lentils and 3.5 cups of salted water, simmer for about 20 minutes until soft but slightly firm.
In a large, deep-sided sauté pan, heat a few tablespoons of oil from your jar of sundried tomatoes over low-medium heat. Sauté the onions until soft, then add the crushed garlic. Sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the crushed fennel seeds and sauté until you can smell their fragrance. Quickly add a little extra oil, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning. Sauté for a few more moments to release the spices’ fragrance—be careful not to let them burn.
Stir in the tomato paste and chopped sundried tomatoes, mixing well with the onions, garlic, spices, and oil. Turn off the heat and set aside.
Once your lentils are cooked, drain them in a sieve, rinsing until the water runs clear. This step ensures your sauce won’t have a muddy color.
Add the lentils to the pan and turn the heat back on. Stir well.
Pour in the vegetable stock and let it simmer for 10 minutes. Start with the pan covered, then uncover for the last couple of minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken as the lentils absorb some water.
Finally, stir in the cream, cheese, and chopped basil over very low heat until the cheese melts and the basil wilts into the sauce.
Let the dish sit (covered) for 5 minutes to thicken, then serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Serve the Creamy Marry Me Lentils warm, garnished with extra basil and lemon wedges on the side. They make a fantastic main dish or a tasty side that pairs well with bread or a fresh salad. The creaminess of the sauce combined with the zesty lemon really brings this dish to life.

How to Store Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. When you are ready to eat, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to bring back the creaminess.

Tips to Make Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Soaking Lentils: If you have time, soak the lentils for a couple of hours before cooking. This can help them cook more evenly.
Variations of Cheese: Feel free to mix different kinds of cheese according to your preference for a richer taste.
Add Veggies: You can add spinach or kale for extra nutrients and color to your dish.

Variation

For a different twist, consider adding some cooked sausage or chicken for non-vegetarian options. You can also switch the type of lentils used to change the flavor or texture of the dish.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils for a quicker preparation. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before using.
How spicy is this dish?
This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or fresh chili if you like some heat.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes well! Just store it in freezer-safe containers, and it will be good for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.