The Best Homemade Lentil Soup Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This hearty lentil soup is packed with flavor and easy to make, perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights. You’ll love how simple and satisfying it is, with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

• Nutritious & filling: Loaded with protein, fiber, and veggies, it keeps you full and energized.
• Budget-friendly: Lentils are affordable, making this a wallet-friendly meal that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• Customizable: Toss in extra veggies, spices, or even a squeeze of lemon to make it your own.

Recipe

Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that’s easy to make with simple ingredients. It’s perfect for a comforting meal, especially during colder months. This recipe is versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried lentils
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
3. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. If using spinach, stir it in during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side if desired.

Notes:

• For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and mix it back in.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Equipment:

• Large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Time:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 35 minutes

Cuisine:

– Mediterranean

Serving:

– 4-6 servings

Nutrition

Homemade lentil soup is a nutritious and hearty dish packed with essential vitamins and minerals. This recipe is a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.

What To Serve With It

I love serving my lentil soup with warm, crusty bread—it’s perfect for soaking up every last bit of flavor. A fresh salad with crisp greens and a tangy dressing adds a nice contrast to the hearty soup. These simple pairings make the meal feel complete without much extra effort.

Crusty Bread Pairings

Pairing crusty bread with lentil soup is one of my favorite ways to make a simple meal feel complete. There’s something magical about dipping that golden, crispy exterior into the rich, hearty soup. I love using a rustic sourdough—it’s tangy flavor adds depth to every bite. Sometimes, I’ll go for a baguette, tearing off chunks to soak up the broth. Warm garlic bread is another winner; the aroma alone makes my mouth water. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll drizzle olive oil over the bread or sprinkle it with herbs. It’s a small touch that makes everything feel special.

Fresh Salad Options

A fresh, vibrant salad can be the perfect side to complement the comforting warmth of lentil soup. I love tossing together greens like spinach or arugula with crisp veggies—cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and grated carrots add crunch and brightness. A simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt ties it all together. Sometimes, I throw in some creamy avocado or tangy feta cheese for extra flavor. This light, invigorating salad balances the heartiness of the soup without overpowering it. It’s quick to make, and the contrast in textures and temperatures makes every bite feel complete.