What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This lentil soup is a comforting classic that’s easy to make and perfect for any season. You’ll enjoy its rich flavors and hearty texture, all while keeping it simple and nutritious.
- It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like tender lentils, fresh veggies, and aromatic spices, making it both filling and healthy.
- The recipe is incredibly flexible, so you can swap in your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own.
- It’s a one-pot wonder that’s ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Recipe
Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s easy to make at home. Packed with protein and fiber, this comforting soup is perfect for chilly days or a wholesome meal any time of year.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes:
- For a creamier texture, blend half the soup before serving.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 35 minutes
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Serving: 4-6 servings
Nutrition
This lentil soup is a nutritious dish packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It provides a balanced mix of macronutrients and is an excellent source of fiber.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Dietary Fiber | 15g |
| Sugars | 5g |
| Fat | 2g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.5g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Potassium | 600mg |
| Vitamin A | 20% DV |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 25% DV |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my lentil soup with warm crusty bread—it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor. A fresh garden salad on the side adds a crisp, invigorating contrast that balances the meal. Trust me, these simple sides make the soup even more satisfying.
Warm Crusty Bread
When I’m serving a cozy bowl of lentil soup, there’s nothing I love more than having a side of warm, crusty bread to complete the meal. There’s something magical about tearing into a fresh loaf, its golden crust cracking slightly as I dip it into the rich, hearty soup. I usually go for a rustic baguette or a sourdough loaf, something with a chewy texture that holds up well. Sometimes, I’ll even toast it lightly for extra crunch. The bread soaks up the flavors perfectly, making every bite feel comforting and satisfying. It’s the ultimate pairing for soup nights.
Fresh Garden Salad
Though lentil soup is hearty on its own, a fresh garden salad adds a crisp, revitalizing contrast that brightens up the whole meal. I love tossing together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of red onion for color. A simple vinaigrette—olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper—ties it all together without overpowering the soup. Sometimes I’ll throw in croutons or avocado for extra texture. It’s light, rejuvenating, and balances the richness of the lentils perfectly. Trust me, this combo feels like a hug for your taste buds, making every bite more satisfying.
