This Hearty Lentil Soup is my favorite go-to for chilly nights! It’s loaded with veggies, tender lentils, and cozy flavors that warm you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s super healthy and easy to make. My family always asks for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Soup
It’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the lentils and fresh vegetables. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this soup is a winner.
What You’ll Need
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dried lentils (any kind), rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
How to Make Hearty Lentil Soup
- Sauté the Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. - Add the Base
Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. - Finish with Greens
If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted. - Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm. It’s even better with a slice of crusty bread!
More Relative Recipes:
- Harry Potter Pumpkin Juice Recipe – A Magical Fall Drink
- Jalapeño Popper Cheese Ball
- Creamy Reuben Soup
- Butternut Squash Sausage Tortellini Soup
- Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bars
Variations to Try
- Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Swap spinach for kale or parsley for a fresh finish.
- Stir in a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving for a tangy kick.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
FAQs
- Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time as they’re already cooked. Add them during the last 10 minutes. - How do I make this soup thicker?
Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender and mix it back in for a creamy texture. - Can I use different spices?
Absolutely! Try turmeric, curry powder, or Italian seasoning for a twist.
Enjoy this cozy, nourishing Hearty Lentil Soup anytime you need a comforting meal! 🥣✨
Recipe Title: Hearty Lentil Soup 🥣
A cozy, nutritious soup loaded with lentils and fresh veggies. Perfect for chilly nights or meal prep!
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup dried lentils any kind, rinsed
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1-2 cups fresh spinach or kale optional
Instructions
- Sauté the Veggies:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the Base:
- Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Finish with Greens:
- If using spinach or kale, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread.
Notes
- Make It Creamy: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy texture.
- Add More Veggies: Diced potatoes or sweet potatoes make a great addition.
- Storage Tips: Store in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for 3 months.
