Creamy Tomato Lentil Pasta

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 200g pasta of your choice; 1 cup cooked lentils; 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Fast Quick Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Lentil Pasta on busy weeknights. This dish not only comes together quickly but also satisfies my cravings for something comforting yet nutritious. The combination of creamy sauce and hearty lentils delivers a rich flavor that's utterly delightful. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate plant-based protein into our meals, making it perfect for my family. Join me in exploring this satisfying recipe that’s simple to prepare and always gets raving reviews.

Created by

Rebecca Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-15T20:29:35.975Z

When I first tried my hand at making Creamy Tomato Lentil Pasta, I didn’t expect it to quickly become a dinner staple in our household. The method of using cooked lentils not only adds incredible texture but also enhances the flavors of the creamy tomato sauce. I found that simmering the tomatoes with garlic and onions develops a delicious base that's hard to resist.

One of the best tips I can share is to add a splash of pasta cooking water to the sauce before mixing in the lentils. This technique helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta and creates a lovely silky finish. It’s those little touches that elevate the dish and make it truly special, even on a regular night!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that coats each pasta strand perfectly
Nutritious lentils add hearty protein to your plate
Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners

      

The Role of Lentils

In this recipe, cooked lentils not only provide a boost of plant-based protein but also contribute a hearty texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Lentils are rich in fiber and essential nutrients, making them an excellent choice for a nutritious meal. I recommend using green or brown lentils for their ability to hold their shape during cooking, ensuring they don’t become mushy in the sauce.

If you’re short on time, canned lentils can be a convenient substitute. Just rinse and drain them before adding to the sauce. Alternatively, for a more tailored flavor, you can cook dried lentils ahead of time. Simmer them in vegetable broth with a bay leaf for added depth.

Customizing the Sauce

The creamy tomato sauce in this dish can be adapted based on your dietary preferences. I often use coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option that still provides a wonderful creaminess. It adds a slight sweetness and pairs excellently with the acidity of the tomatoes. However, if you're looking for richness, full-fat heavy cream is a great choice and offers a luxurious mouthfeel.

For an extra flavor kick, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce before mixing it with the pasta. These elements will enhance the dish's complexity and tailor it to your taste.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy tomato lentil pasta is perfect for meal prepping. You can cook the pasta and sauce separately, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I suggest using low heat on the stove and adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, as it tends to thicken when cooled.

If you want to freeze this dish, consider undercooking the pasta slightly before mixing it with the sauce. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then heat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture.

Ingredients

To make Creamy Tomato Lentil Pasta, gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

200g pasta of your choice
1 cup cooked lentils
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh basil for garnish

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start preparing this delightful dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the perfect Creamy Tomato Lentil Pasta:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the canned diced tomatoes to the skillet. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Then, stir in the cooked lentils, followed by the heavy cream or coconut milk.

Mix with Pasta

Once the sauce is heated through, add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Gradually add reserved pasta water to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh basil. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy goodness!

Your Creamy Tomato Lentil Pasta is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. Also, feel free to substitute heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative to cater to dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, pair this creamy tomato lentil pasta with a fresh side salad. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully. You can also add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an enhanced flavor profile.

This dish also serves well alongside crusty bread or garlic bread, which can be used to mop up any leftover sauce. For a fun twist, consider serving it in a baked pasta format—transfer it to a baking dish, top with cheese, and broil until bubbly for a comforting casserole.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t hesitate to experiment with different types of pasta in this recipe. Whole wheat or gluten-free options work perfectly as well. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly, so always refer to package instructions to achieve the ideal al dente texture.

If you prefer a lighter dish, swap out the heavy cream for unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream, enhancing the dish's creaminess while keeping it lower in calories. Similarly, you can replace the diced tomatoes with roasted tomatoes for a caramelized flavor that elevates the entire sauce.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you find your sauce too thick, don’t stress! Gradually add the reserved pasta water while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. This water is starchy and will help the sauce adhere better to the pasta without overwhelming the flavors.

In case the sauce becomes too acidic due to the tomatoes, a small amount of sugar can balance it out. Just a teaspoon at a time will help soften the flavors without dominating the overall profile, allowing the creamy texture and lentils to shine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape, including gluten-free options.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

→ What can I pair this pasta with?

This creamy pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.