Easy and Delicious Lentil Soup Recipe for Cozy Days

Name: Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils; 2 medium carrots, diced; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

March 9, 2025

Updated:

March 9, 2025

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The aroma of simmering spices fills the air while vibrant vegetables dance in your pot. This lentil soup recipe is not just an ordinary dish; it’s a warm embrace on a cold day. As the rich flavors blend together, you’ll find each spoonful brings joy like a hug from your grandma.

Imagine gathering around the table with family or friends, sharing stories and laughter over steaming bowls of this hearty creation. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is something comforting and nourishing. Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure that promises to elevate your taste buds!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This easy lentil soup recipe makes meal prep effortless without sacrificing flavor
Customize it effortlessly based on what’s in your pantry
The hearty textures and vibrant colors make it delightful on any dinner table
It’s versatile enough for lunch or dinner and perfect for meal prepping too!

I once made this lentil soup for my friends during a game night, and they couldn’t stop raving about how delicious it was.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Lentils: Choose green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well while cooking.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; pick firm ones without blemishes.
Onion: A diced onion brings depth; opt for yellow onions for balanced sweetness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance the flavor profile; more is always better!
Celery: Celery adds crunch and earthiness; select stalks that are crisp and vibrant.
Canned Tomatoes: Use diced tomatoes for acidity; they’re essential in balancing flavors.
Vegetable Broth: A good quality broth elevates the taste significantly; low-sodium options work well.
Spices (Cumin, Paprika): These spices add warmth; feel free to adjust the quantities based on preference.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness without overpowering.
Salt & Pepper: Always season to taste; fresh ground pepper gives a lovely kick!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather your ingredients because we’re about to create culinary magic!

Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing and chopping your carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into small pieces. The vibrant colors will brighten up your kitchen!

Sauté Until Aromatic: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add the chopped onions. Cook until they turn translucent, releasing their sweet aroma—about 4 minutes.

Add Colorful Veggies: Toss in the garlic, carrots, and celery. Stir them around until everything gets cozy together—about 5 minutes will do the trick!

In Go the Lentils: Add rinsed lentils along with diced tomatoes and vegetable broth into the pot. Stir everything together as if you’re conducting an orchestra of flavors.

Create Flavor Harmony: Sprinkle in cumin and paprika while seasoning generously with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low.

Simmer Away: Cover the pot partially and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. Your kitchen will smell heavenly as the flavors meld into something magical!

Once finished cooking, give it one last taste test—adjust seasoning if needed—and serve hot garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful lentil soup recipe that warms both heart and soul! You’ll find yourself reaching for seconds (or thirds)—trust me!

You Must Know

This comforting lentil soup recipe not only warms your belly but also boosts your mood
The combination of spices and fresh veggies creates an aroma that fills the house, inviting everyone to the table
Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some healthy ingredients!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add lentils and broth. Simmer for 30 minutes until tender, adding veggies toward the end for crispness.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different vegetables or beans based on what’s in your fridge. Try adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove until warmed through, adding water if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To elevate this lentil soup recipe, consider using homemade vegetable broth for richer flavor
Always rinse lentils before cooking; it removes impurities and enhances taste
Stir in fresh herbs right before serving for an aromatic finish

The first time I made this lentil soup, my family couldn’t believe how delicious it was. They devoured it and requested seconds—now it’s a regular feature at our gatherings!

FAQs