Lentil soup starts with aromatic vegetables and herbs at its base, slowly sautéed to build up complex flavor. Broth and lentils marry in creating a pot of hug-you-from-the-inside bliss. While it perhaps sounds simple and is not the most photogenic, this traditional lentil soup recipe tastes phenomenal AND it’s good for you. I have cooked and served lentil soup to many friends who all raved, and it’s one of my go-to weeknight dinners. Cozy, warming, and satisfying, lentil soup is great for feeding a crowd, or for curling up with you and Netflix. I’ve experimented with several versions and cooking methods, including Crockpot Lentil Soup, Instant Pot Lentil Soup, and Curry Lentil Soup. Choose your favorite flavor profile and method; you really can’t go wrong!
Why Lentil Soup is Healthy
Lentils are a power-house of vitamins, protein, and fiber.
Vitamins. Lentils may be small in size, but they are mighty in nutrients! Lentils boast B vitamins, potassium, magnesium, and iron. On top of the lentils, you are getting loads of vitamins from the veggies also in the soup.Protein. Just half a cup of cooked lentils contains 9 grams of protein. This soup is a solid meal for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike.Fiber. Carrots and lentils are both great fiber sources. There are 8 grams of fiber in a half cup of cooked lentils! The fiber coupled with the protein will really fill you up and make you feel satisfied.
Enjoy servings of vegetables in each bowl. This soup contains a colorful mix of veggies, providing diverse vitamins and delicious flavors to boot.
How to Make Lentil Soup
This easy lentil soup recipe is a stovetop version that boasts warm Italian flavors. No soaking of lentils is required. You’ll have it ready in less than an hour!
The Ingredients
Veggies. Any good soup starts with the holy grail of slowly sautéed onions, garlic, and carrots.
Herbs & Spices. Fresh thyme and bay leaf enhance the earthiness of the lentils and overall warmth of the dish.
Tomatoes. Bust out those pantry staples; it’s soup season. The tomatoes add to the broth flavor and liquid needed to cook the lentils.
Lentils. You already heard my spiel on how healthy and amazing lentils are (we love them in Instant Pot Lentil Curry too!). Different types of lentils have different flavor distinctions. This soup works well with brown or green lentils (also called lentils de puy).
Broth. Vegetable broth keeps this dish vegetarian, but chicken broth could be used otherwise. Use low sodium to keep the soup from getting too salty.Kale. This trendy veg is here to stay. A sturdy leafy green, it is ideal for soups because it holds up.Sherry Vinegar. One of the final notes that really brings this soup symphony to life.
Red Pepper Flakes. Optional, but I like it for a bit of heat.Honey. To balance out the acidity and round it all out.Parmesan. Freshly grated Parmesan is stirred in at the end to add some creamy, cheesy delightfulness, plus more to top your bowl and make you smile and feel fancy. To make the lentil soup vegan, simply omit it.
The Directions
Storage Tips
To Store. Lentils soup will last for up to 5 days in refrigerator, stored in airtight container. To Reheat. Reheat in Dutch oven on stove on medium-low heat until hot, or in microwave.To Freeze. Great for a freezer meal, this soup can be stored in airtight, freezer-safe storage container (I love using Ziplock bags and laying them flat to freeze) for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
What to Serve With Lentil Soup
While the soup in itself is a complete and filling meal, a salad and/or bread would make for a classic combo. Red lentils and yellow lentils are very delicate, so while they are great for quick-cooking recipes like dal, they become mushy in soup.
Bread. I think you gotta have bread with soup to dip and mop. Crock Pot Bread would work wonderfully.Salad. Try this soup with a side of Arugula Salad, Winter Salad or Beet Salad.Simple Protein. Try Air Fryer Chicken Breast or Baked Salmon in Foil.
Recommended Tools to Make this Recipe
Dutch Oven. I love mine so much it has a name. This is also a great option and easier on the wallet.Wooden Spoon. My preferred tool for sautéing and stirring.Ladle. Serve it up!
Health and taste are not mutually exclusive. Leave a rating below in the comments and let me know how you liked the recipe. Grab a big bowl, and lift a spoon to your wellbeing and comfort!
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