Creamy “Marry Me” Lentils

If you’re looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve found it! These Creamy Marry Me Lentils are simply divine, combining the rich flavors of sundried tomatoes with creamy goodness. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress family and friends at gatherings. The best part? It’s super easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. You’ll find yourself making this again and again!

I adore this recipe not just for its incredible taste but also for its versatility. Serve it spooned over rice, piled onto crusty bread, or as a topping for sweet potatoes – the options are endless! Get ready to fall in love with these lentils; they just might capture your heart (and your stomach!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 40 minutes, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
• Deliciously Creamy: The combination of cream and cheese creates a rich sauce that makes every bite delightful.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this hearty dish, making it a great option for family meals.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it, saving you time during hectic days.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a side dish or make it the star of your meal – it’s delicious no matter how you serve it.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our Creamy Marry Me Lentils. These items are easy to find and come together beautifully to create a comforting dish that everyone will love.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with the ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Add More Veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients.
• Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes to give your lentils a spicy kick.
• Change Up the Cheese: Use feta or goat cheese instead of parmesan for a different flavor profile.
• Make it Vegan: Substitute the cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast in place of cheese for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Step 1: Cook Your Lentils

If you’re cooking your lentils from dry, start this process before prepping other ingredients. This allows them to cook while you prepare everything else. For black lentils, if you’re using an Instant Pot, combine 1 cup of lentils with 1.75 cups of salted water and cook on HIGH for 9 minutes followed by a natural release for 10 minutes. If you’re using the stovetop method, simmer them in 3.5 cups of salted water for around 20 minutes until they’re soft yet slightly al dente.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large sauté pan, heat a few tablespoons of oil from your jar of sundried tomatoes over low-medium heat. Add your finely diced onion and sauté until soft; then add crushed garlic and cook until fragrant – about 30 seconds more. This step is critical because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Spices

Next, add the crushed fennel seeds and sauté until fragrant. Quickly mix in some extra oil along with smoked paprika and Italian seasoning. Sauté briefly—keeping the heat low—to ensure that all those lovely spices release their aromas without burning.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in tomato paste along with chopped sundried tomatoes until everything is well combined. Turn off the heat once mixed; setting aside while you prepare your lentils ensures all flavors meld beautifully later on.

Step 5: Prepare Your Lentils

Once your lentils are cooked or drained if using canned ones, rinse them thoroughly until the water runs clear—this helps keep your sauce vibrant instead of muddying it up with dark cooking liquid.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add the cooked lentils right into that fragrant mixture in your pan and turn up the heat slightly while mixing everything together evenly.

Step 7: Simmer

Pour in vegetable stock and allow everything to simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Cover initially but uncover towards the end so that the sauce thickens as those lovely lentils soak up flavors.

Step 8: Stir In Cream & Cheese

Finally, lower the heat before stirring in heavy cream, cheese, and chopped basil until melted through—a moment that makes all those flavors dance together delightfully!

Step 9: Let It Rest

Cover your pan again and let sit for about five minutes to thicken further before giving one last stir before serving alongside fresh lemon wedges for squeezing over top!

Enjoy every comforting bite of these Creamy Marry Me Lentils—you might just want to marry them yourself!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Making a delicious dish is all about the little details, and these tips will help you create the best Marry Me Lentils that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Using high-quality sundried tomatoes and fresh herbs can significantly enhance the flavor of your dish. Fresh ingredients bring vibrancy and richness that dried or processed ones can’t match.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allowing your lentils to simmer gently will help them absorb flavors without turning mushy. The slow cooking process allows the spices to meld beautifully with the lentils, creating a more harmonious dish.
• Adjust Consistency with Stock: If you prefer a thinner sauce, feel free to add a bit more vegetable stock during the simmering stage. This flexibility lets you customize the dish to your preferred creaminess.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, letting the lentils sit covered for a few minutes allows the flavors to deepen and develop. This resting time is crucial for achieving that perfect creamy texture.
• Experiment with Cheese Options: If you’re looking for a vegan option, try nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy. It keeps the essence of the dish while accommodating different dietary preferences.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Presenting your Creamy Marry Me Lentils in an inviting way can elevate your dining experience! Here are some creative serving ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: A sprinkle of chopped basil on top adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
• Chili Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a pinch of chili flakes can add an exciting kick to every bite.
• Lemon Zest: Grating some lemon zest over the top just before serving infuses brightness and enhances all those rich flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty baguette or sourdough is perfect for scooping up those creamy lentils, making every bite satisfying.
• Steamed Green Veggies: Lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provide a fresh crunch and balance out the richness of the lentils.
• Garlic Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic make for a hearty side that pairs wonderfully with creamy dishes.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a hint of lemon offers a refreshing contrast to your indulgent lentils.

With these serving suggestions, you’re all set to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this comforting dish that’s sure to bring smiles around your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Marry Me Lentils recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can easily whip up a batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lentils to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Divide the lentils into portion-sized containers or freezer bags.
• Ensure they are sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
• If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of vegetable stock or water to loosen it up.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re in the right place!

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

Absolutely! While black lentils add a luxurious touch, you can use brown or green lentils as well. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Creamy Marry Me Lentils dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative like cashew cream. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese option.

Can I add vegetables to my Creamy Marry Me Lentils?

Yes! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables such as spinach, kale, or bell peppers during the cooking process for added flavor and nutrients.

How can I serve Creamy Marry Me Lentils?

These lentils are versatile! Serve them over rice, with crusty bread, or as a topping for baked sweet potatoes. They also make a great side dish!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Creamy Marry Me Lentils as much as I do! This dish brings warmth and comfort while being easy enough for any night of the week. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or indulging in yourself. Happy cooking!