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Best Lentil Soup Recipe

Best Lentil Soup Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 5 from 82 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Category: Main-course
  • Method: One Pot & One Pan
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This hearty Lentil Soup recipe is the ultimate comfort food, brimming with tender lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s a nourishing, one-pot meal that’s easy to prepare, naturally filling, and richly flavored, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Enjoy a healthy, protein-packed soup that’s also ideal for vegan and vegetarian diets.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Finishing Touches

  • 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for serving (optional)
  • Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Base: In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
  2. Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute more, until the spices release their aroma.
  3. Add Lentils and Liquids: Pour in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Stir to combine, and season with salt and pepper as desired.
  4. Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for 2-3 minutes, until wilted. Add the lemon juice for brightness, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Notes

  • For extra richness, drizzle each serving with a little extra virgin olive oil.
  • You can add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier soup.
  • Lentil soup keeps well; store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Customize with your favorite greens or add a dash of chili flakes for extra warmth.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/6 of recipe (about 2 cups)
  • Calories: 230
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 5g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 37g
  • Fiber: 13g
  • Protein: 13g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg