Creamy “Marry Me” Lentils

If you’re looking for a dish that combines comfort, flavor, and a little bit of magic, then these Creamy Marry Me Lentils are just what you need! This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Imagine a warm bowl of lentils enveloped in a dreamy creamy sundried tomato sauce that has everyone reaching for seconds. Trust me, once you try this dish, you might just find yourself falling in love!

What I adore about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve it alongside crusty bread, over rice, or even as a topping for roasted sweet potatoes. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy yet is surprisingly simple to prepare—definitely a win-win in my book!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this dish ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy sauce and rich flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week—just reheat and serve!
• Packed with Flavor: The combination of sundried tomatoes, fragrant spices, and fresh basil creates a dish that’s bursting with taste.
• Nutritionally Rich: Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this dish not only delicious but also nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create these delightful Creamy Marry Me Lentils, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. Don’t worry; they’re all easy to find at your local grocery store!

For the Lentils:

• 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)

Variations

The beauty of Creamy Marry Me Lentils lies in their flexibility! Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your tastes or what you have on hand.

• Add more veggies: Incorporate chopped spinach or kale for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the spices.
• Make it vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a delicious plant-based version.
• Change the lentils: Try using puy lentils for a different texture or swap in red lentils for quicker cooking.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

If you’re cooking your lentils from dry, start this process before prepping other ingredients. They can cook while you gather everything else! For black lentils: in an Instant Pot, combine 1 cup of lentils with 1.75 cups of salted water. Cook on HIGH for 9 minutes followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. On the stovetop, simmer them gently with 3.5 cups of salted water until they’re soft but still slightly al dente—this will give your dish the perfect texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large sauté pan, heat a few tablespoons of oil from your sundried tomato jar over low-medium heat. Add the finely diced red onion and sauté until they become soft and translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness! After about 4-5 minutes, toss in the crushed garlic and stir it all together until fragrant—just about 30 seconds more.

Step 3: Add Your Spices

Now it’s time to amp up the flavor! Add the crushed fennel seeds and sauté until their aroma fills your kitchen. Quickly add extra oil if needed along with smoked paprika and Italian seasoning. Continue sautéing just long enough to release those beautiful flavors without burning them—an important step that makes all the difference!

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in the tomato paste along with your chopped sundried tomatoes. Mix everything together well so that each ingredient gets coated in that lovely aromatic oil. Turn off the heat temporarily while you prepare your cooked lentils.

Step 5: Drain & Rinse the Lentils

Once your lentils are cooked or if you’re using canned ones, drain them well using a fine sieve—this helps avoid any muddy colors in your sauce! Rinse until the water runs clear; this step ensures your sauce stays vibrant.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add those beautifully cooked lentils back into the pan with your sautéed mixture. Turn the heat back on to mix everything thoroughly—ensure every bite is filled with flavor!

Step 7: Simmer with Vegetable Stock

Pour in the vegetable stock and let everything simmer together covered for about 10 minutes. Uncover during the last couple of minutes so that some liquid can evaporate—the goal is to thicken up that creamy sauce as the lentils soak up some goodness.

Step 8: Stir In Cream & Cheese

Finally, lower your heat and mix in heavy cream along with grated cheese and chopped basil until melted through. This step adds richness that makes this dish truly special!

Step 9: Let It Rest & Serve

Allow your creamy creation to sit covered for about five minutes—it thickens beautifully during this time! Give it another good stir before serving with lemon wedges on hand for squeezing over each delightful bowlful.

Enjoy every comforting bite of these Creamy Marry Me Lentils—you might just fall head over heels!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Creating the perfect creamy lentils is all about technique and a little love! Here are some pro tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose the right lentils: Using black lentils gives the dish a luxurious texture and rich flavor, but feel free to experiment with puy or brown lentils if you prefer. Each type adds its unique charm!
• Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step builds a flavorful base, ensuring that each bite is packed with deliciousness.
• Rinse your lentils thoroughly: Rinsing cooked lentils until the water runs clear helps prevent the sauce from becoming muddy, keeping it beautifully creamy and vibrant.
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Every palate is different! Give your dish a taste before serving, and don’t hesitate to add extra herbs or spices if you desire more flavor.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking enhances the flavors as they meld together, making each bite even more delightful.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Serving Creamy Marry Me Lentils is just as fun as making them! Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy meal at home, think about how to present this dreamy dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil: A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil on top adds a burst of color and freshness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce.
• Lemon zest: A light grating of lemon zest can brighten up the flavors, adding an aromatic touch that takes the dish to the next level.
• Toasted pine nuts: For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts on top just before serving. They provide a lovely contrast in texture with their nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

• Crusty bread: Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread for scooping up those luscious lentils. It’s perfect for soaking up every bit of that creamy sauce!
• Steamed broccoli: The mild crunch of steamed broccoli not only adds color but also balances out the richness of the lentils. It’s nutritious and delicious!
• Quinoa salad: A light quinoa salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette complements the flavors beautifully while adding extra protein and fiber to your meal.
• Roasted sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the lentils, creating a comforting plate full of harmony.

Now you’re ready to impress everyone at your table with these Creamy Marry Me Lentils! Enjoy every spoonful knowing you’ve created something truly special.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe for Creamy Marry Me Lentils is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare a batch in advance, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
• The lentils will stay fresh for up to 4 days.
• For best results, let them cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing

• Place cooled lentils in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stovetop over low heat.
• Add a splash of vegetable stock or water if the lentils seem too thick while reheating.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Creamy Marry Me Lentils that you might find helpful!

Can I use different types of lentils for Creamy Marry Me Lentils?

Absolutely! While black lentils are luxurious, you can also use brown or green lentils. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different varieties may require more or less time.

How do I know when my lentils are done cooking?

Lentils should be tender but still hold their shape. For black lentils, aim for a cooking time of about 20 minutes on the stovetop. If you’re using canned lentils, simply drain and rinse them before adding to the sauce.

Can I make Creamy Marry Me Lentils vegan?

Yes! To make this dish vegan, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative and omit any cheese or use a vegan cheese option.

What can I serve with Creamy Marry Me Lentils?

These delicious lentils pair wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or even as a topping for baked sweet potatoes.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Creamy Marry Me Lentils as much as I do! This dish is not only comforting but also packed with flavor that makes it truly special. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family, it’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!