Creamy Tomato Lentil Couscous

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Couscous
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup couscous; 1 1/4 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt to taste; 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown); 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup coconut cream; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Wholesome Inspiration

I absolutely love this Creamy Tomato Lentil Couscous recipe! It's a delightful combination of texture and flavor that warms the soul. The creaminess from the lentils paired with the tangy tomato sauce creates a savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion. I often whip this up when I want something comforting and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a guilt-free pleasure. You’ll find this dish to be both nourishing and filling, perfect for a cozy night in or a family gathering.

Created by

Tallulah Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:22:35.383Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was looking for a way to elevate my usual lentil dish. The result exceeded my expectations! Combining the lentils with couscous creates a unique texture, and the creamy tomato sauce binds everything together beautifully. I remember the moment I took my first bite and the harmony of flavors filled my mouth. It's simply irresistible!

To ensure that my sauce is rich and robust, I always use high-quality crushed tomatoes and add fresh herbs. These little details make a world of difference. I also love letting it simmer for a while; the longer it cooks, the more enhanced the flavors become. Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen will make your mouth water!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy texture that's both satisfying and wholesome
Packed with plant-based protein and nutrients
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or spices

Understanding Key Ingredients

The base of this Creamy Tomato Lentil Couscous is the couscous itself, which cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Using vegetable broth instead of water elevates the dish, providing a richer taste. When cooking, keep an eye on the couscous as it should be fluffy and not overcooked. If you find it clumping, a quick fluff with a fork or a splash more broth can bring it back to life.

The choice of lentils is vital in this dish. Green or brown lentils work best as they hold their shape and add a substantial bite to the sauce. If you're pressed for time, canned lentils can be a handy substitute—just remember to rinse them thoroughly to remove excess sodium. These lentils aren't just for texture; they also contribute to the protein content, enhancing the nutritional profile of your meal.

Tweaking for Personal Preference

One of the joys of this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily swap out the coconut cream for regular heavy cream or cashew cream for a nut-free version, depending on your dietary preferences. Adjusting the spices can also turn up the heat—try adding red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for a spicy kick. It's essential to taste throughout the cooking process, ensuring the flavors develop and balance to your liking.

Vegetable additions can also personalize your dish. Diced bell peppers or zucchini can be sautéed with the onions for added color and nutrients, and fresh spinach can be stirred in at the end for a dose of greens. Each vegetable brings its flavor and texture, so feel free to experiment based on what you have on hand or what's in season.

Ingredients

For the Couscous

1 cup couscous
1 1/4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt to taste

For the Creamy Tomato Sauce

1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup coconut cream
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Couscous

In a saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Add the couscous and olive oil, stirring well. Remove from heat, cover, and let it sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and season with salt.

Make the Creamy Sauce

In another pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, and paprika; cook for another minute. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked lentils and coconut cream to the sauce, mixing well to combine. Allow everything to simmer together for about 5 minutes. Serve the creamy sauce over the couscous and garnish with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider throwing in some sautéed spinach or roasted bell peppers before serving. You can also adjust the spices according to your taste preferences.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Couscous keeps well, making it an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the lentil sauce a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just ensure it's cooled completely before transferring it to an airtight container. The flavors deepen with time, and reheating the sauce on the stove adds back that fresh, vibrant flavor that's sometimes muted after a night in the fridge.

If you're considering freezing, the sauce freezes beautifully without losing its creamy texture. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge or reheat directly from frozen on low heat, stirring until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

To serve, I recommend a generous scoop of the creamy sauce over the fluffy couscous, garnished with fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor. Pair this dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce or a simple green salad for a refreshing crunch. The bright flavors of a lemon vinaigrette can complement the creaminess beautifully and balance the dish.

For a heartier meal, consider topping the couscous with a protein source like grilled chicken, shrimp, or for a vegan option, roasted chickpeas. Each addition brings unique flavors and textures, ensuring that this recipe can adapt to whatever craving or dietary requirement you face.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different grains instead of couscous?

Absolutely! You can substitute couscous with quinoa, bulgur, or even brown rice, while adjusting the cooking times accordingly.

→ How can I make this dish vegan?

This recipe is already vegan! The coconut cream adds creaminess without any dairy, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.

→ Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheating it will make it easy to serve with freshly cooked couscous.

→ What can I serve this dish with?

It's delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a more substantial meal.