Creamy Lentil Sun-dried Tomato Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 shallots, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• chili flakes
• 4 cups broth
• 1/2 cup red or green lentils
• 1 can 14 ounce diced tomatoes
• salt and black pepper
• 1 jar 8 ounce sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup cream (or canned coconut milk)
• 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• fresh parsley for serving

Instructions

1. Melt the butter with the shallots and garlic in a Dutch oven set over medium heat. Add the Italian seasoning. Cook until the shallots begin to caramelize, about 5 minutes. Reduce the heat to low, add the tomato paste and chili flakes. Cook for 2 minutes until thickened. Stir in the broth, lentils, and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 15 minutes until the lentils are soft.
2. Add the sliced/chopped sun-dried tomatoes, the cream, and parmesan, stirring until creamy and steamy, 5-10 minutes
3. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley. Highly recommend warm, crusty bread for dipping. Or go for a grilled cheese. Enjoy!