Lentil Vegetable Soup Recipe

Lentil vegetable soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish made by simmering lentils with a mix of vegetables and spices. It’s a wholesome meal often enjoyed as a vegan or vegetarian option. The combination of lentils, onions, carrots, celery, and tomatoes provides a hearty base, while the spices like cumin, paprika, and turmeric bring depth and warmth to the soup.

Preparing lentil vegetable soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 30-40 minutes of cooking. The hands-on cooking time is short, and the soup simmers slowly to bring out all the flavors. It’s a perfect recipe for busy days when you need something quick yet hearty. Once the soup is simmering, you can relax and let the flavors meld together, creating a satisfying dish.

The combination of lentils and vegetables creates a naturally filling meal that doesn’t feel heavy. The spices make it aromatic and comforting, while the broth adds a savory depth to the soup. It’s an easy recipe to adjust based on what you have in your kitchen, making it perfect for all levels of home cooks.

Why You’ll Love It Lentil Vegetable Soup

• Nutritious and Filling: Lentil Vegetable Soup is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. The lentils provide a healthy dose of plant-based protein, while the variety of vegetables like carrots, spinach, and tomatoes add essential nutrients.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can enjoy a hearty and wholesome meal without much effort, making it a go-to for healthy dinners.
• Versatile and Flavorful: The soup is highly customizable to your taste. Add your favorite vegetables, spices, or herbs to create a unique flavor every time. Whether you prefer it spicy or mild, this soup can adapt to suit your preferences.

Ingredient Notes for Lentil Vegetable Soup

• Lentils: These small, round legumes are packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. They cook quickly and make the base of the soup hearty and filling.
• Onion: Adds depth of flavor to the soup. It becomes sweet and savory when sautéed, balancing the dish’s taste.
• Carrots: Carrots bring natural sweetness and color to the soup. They also provide vitamins and fiber.
• Celery Stalks: Celery adds a fresh, slightly peppery crunch and enhances the soup’s aroma with its natural flavor.
• Garlic Cloves: Garlic offers a bold, aromatic flavor that complements the earthiness of the lentils. It has health benefits, like boosting the immune system.
• Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes give the soup a juicy, tangy base that brightens the overall flavor and adds to the soup’s richness.
• Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth: The broth is the liquid foundation of the soup, providing essential flavor. Vegetable broth makes it vegetarian-friendly, while chicken broth adds a deeper, savory taste.
• Dried Thyme: Thyme is a fragrant herb that adds a subtle earthy note, enhancing the flavor profile of the soup.
• Ground Cumin: This spice adds warmth and a slightly smoky taste, balancing the freshness of the vegetables.
• Paprika: Paprika adds a hint of heat and smokiness, enriching the soup with a mild spiciness.
• Turmeric: Known for its golden color and earthy flavor, turmeric brings warmth and a touch of bitterness, while also offering anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Bay Leaf: Bay leaves infuse the soup with a mild, herbal flavor, enhancing the overall richness without overwhelming the taste.
• Salt and Pepper: These basic seasonings help to balance and bring out the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for sautéing the vegetables, adding a healthy fat and a smooth, subtle flavor to the soup.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley is sprinkled on top of the soup for a fresh, green flavor that contrasts with the rich soup base and adds a pop of color.

Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch

Lentil vegetable soup is a hearty, nutritious meal. To make it extra special, start with high-quality ingredients. Use fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes for a vibrant and flavorful base. The fresher your ingredients, the better the taste of your soup will be.

Don’t forget to season it well. Herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves bring out the depth of flavors. If you like it spicier, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Always taste as you go and adjust seasoning to your preference.

Add your own twist by experimenting with different vegetables. Potatoes, spinach, or kale can all enhance the soup’s texture and taste. The beauty of lentil vegetable soup is its versatility. You can switch out ingredients based on what’s in season or what you have in your pantry.

Lentil Vegetable Soup Variation

Lentil vegetable soup is a versatile dish that can easily be adjusted to suit your preferences. Here are some ideas for variations:

• Add protein: For an extra boost of protein, add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage to the soup. You can also mix in some quinoa or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Spice it up: If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a spicy kick.
• Use different veggies: Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for a different flavor profile.
• Blend it: For a creamy texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. This gives the soup a smooth consistency without losing any of the hearty goodness.
• Herb alternatives: Try different herbs such as rosemary, oregano, or basil for a new twist on the flavor.

How to Serve Lentil Vegetable Soup

Lentil vegetable soup can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are a few ideas on how to serve it:

• With bread: Serve your soup with a slice of warm, crusty bread. A baguette, sourdough, or even a piece of pita will complement the soup perfectly.
• As a main dish: Lentil vegetable soup is filling enough to be a complete meal on its own. Add a side salad or some roasted vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
• Garnish it: Top your soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also add a burst of freshness.
• In a bowl or mug: If you’re in a hurry, serve your soup in a cozy mug for a portable and comforting meal.

Storage Options for Lentil Vegetable Soup

Lentil vegetable soup stores well and can last for several days in the refrigerator. Here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing. Keep it in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Reheat it in a pot or microwave when ready to serve.
• Freezer: You can also freeze lentil vegetable soup for longer storage. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Label it with the date, and it will stay good for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove.

FAQs About Lentil Vegetable Soup

Is lentil vegetable soup healthy?
Yes, lentil vegetable soup is a nutritious choice as it is high in fiber, protein, and vitamins from the vegetables. It’s also low in calories and a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

How long does lentil vegetable soup last?
Lentil vegetable soup can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months for longer storage.

Can I add meat to lentil vegetable soup?
Yes, you can add meat such as chicken, sausage, or beef to lentil vegetable soup to make it heartier. This can also add extra protein and flavor to the soup.

Is lentil vegetable soup vegan-friendly?
Yes, lentil vegetable soup is naturally vegan if made with vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients. It’s a great option for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet.

Lentil Vegetable Soup Recipe

Lentil vegetable soup is a nutritious and flavorful dishmade by simmering lentils with a mix of vegetables and spices. It’s a wholesomemeal often enjoyed as a vegan or vegetarian option. The combination of lentils,onions, carrots, celery, and tomatoes provides a hearty base, while the spiceslike cumin, paprika, and turmeric bring depth and warmth to the soup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Course: Soup

Cuisine: Vegan

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup dry lentils rinsed
• 1 large onion chopped
• 2 medium carrots peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks diced
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes, or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric optional, but it adds a nice color
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish, optional

Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Knife and chopping board
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Ladle
• Can Opener

Method

 

1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, cumin, paprika, and turmeric (if using). Stir everything together for about 1 minute, until the garlic is fragrant and the spices start to bloom.
3. Add Lentils and Broth: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, then pour in the vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil over high heat.
4. Simmer: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Add Tomatoes and Bay Leaf: Add the diced tomatoes and bay leaf to the soup. Stir everything together, then continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you want a more robust flavor, add an extra dash of cumin or paprika.
7. Serve: Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf, and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

Notes

The key to great lentil soup lies in the seasoning. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the spices as the soup cooks. If you like a little more heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder. If you prefer a more earthy flavor, increase the cumin or turmeric.