Lentil Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting dish, perfect for any season. It’s packed with protein-rich lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices, making it a filling meal that’s both delicious and healthy.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed and drained
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped
- Optional: lemon wedges and chopped fresh parsley for serving
Directions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and vegetable broth. Add the cumin, coriander, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Add the chopped spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt in the hot soup.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 210
- Fat: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 12g
Prep and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Servings
- Serves: 4-6 people
Lentil Soup is a wonderfully versatile dish that can be adjusted according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand. It’s a great way to incorporate plant-based protein into your diet and is equally enjoyable on its own or paired with crusty bread or a salad. This soup offers a warm, satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and full of flavor.
