Hearty Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery Recipe

Name: Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 1 tsp dried thyme; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe By:

Olivia Carter

Posted:

May 3, 2025

Updated:

May 3, 2025

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Lentil soup with carrots and celery is like a warm hug in a bowl, inviting you to sip on comfort and joy. The rich, earthy flavor of lentils combined with the sweet crunch of carrots and the fresh crunch of celery creates a symphony of taste that dances on your palate.

Imagine walking into your kitchen while the aroma of simmering vegetables fills the air, instantly making your stomach growl. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet healthy. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will warm your heart and fill your belly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

You can whip up this lentil soup in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Packed with flavor, it offers a satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on nutrition
Its vibrant colors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike
Versatile enough to serve as a starter or main dish, it’s great for any occasion

I still remember the first time I made lentil soup with carrots and celery; my friends couldn’t get enough of it! Their surprised faces turned into delighted smiles with each spoonful.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

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

Lentils: Use green or brown lentils for best results; they hold their shape beautifully during cooking.
Carrots: Fresh, sweet carrots are essential; they add natural sweetness and color to the soup.
Celery: Opt for crisp celery stalks; their refreshing crunch balances the earthiness of lentils.
Onion: A medium yellow onion provides aromatic depth and sweetness when sautéed.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves enhance flavor; chop them finely for maximum fragrance.
Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while infusing rich flavor.
Dried Thyme: This herb adds an earthy note that complements the other ingredients beautifully.
Olive Oil: A splash of extra virgin olive oil enhances richness and allows flavors to meld together.
Salt & Pepper: Season generously; they bring all the flavors together harmoniously.

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

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Dice the onions, slice the carrots, and chop the celery into bite-sized pieces. The colorful medley will brighten up your kitchen!

Sauté Aromatics: Heat some olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, stirring until fragrant. You want those onions translucent and sweet-smelling; this is where magic begins!

Add Carrots & Celery: Toss in your chopped carrots and celery next. Sauté them until slightly softened—about five minutes should do it! The kitchen should start smelling heavenly at this point.

Add Lentils & Broth : Stir in rinsed lentils along with vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to let it simmer gently. Watch as the lentils soak up all those delicious flavors!

Season & Simmer : Sprinkle in dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Allow soup to simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Your patience will pay off!

Blend (Optional): For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender briefly—just a few pulses will do! Keep some chunks for added texture if you prefer.

Now you’re left with a steaming pot of comforting lentil soup with carrots and celery that not only warms you up but also brings smiles around the table! Serve it hot with crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top.

Enjoy every spoonful as you bask in its warmth—it’s more than just food; it’s love served in a bowl!

You Must Know

Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery is not just nutritious; it’s a hug in a bowl!
The aroma of simmering vegetables fills your kitchen, promising warmth and comfort
Plus, it’s easy to customize based on what you have on hand, making it a forgiving recipe for busy cooks

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic to release their flavors. Add carrots and celery next, then the lentils and broth for even cooking.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables or add spices like cumin or paprika to kick up the flavor. A splash of lemon juice can brighten things up!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout.

Chef's Helpful Tips

Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any debris
Use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water for richer flavor
Adjust seasoning after cooking, as flavors develop over time

I remember the first time I made Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery; my friends devoured it, asking for seconds. Their smiles were worth every minute spent chopping veggies.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use dried lentils for this recipe?

Yes, dried lentils work perfectly; just ensure they are rinsed thoroughly before use.

How long does this soup last in the fridge?

Lentil soup stays fresh in the fridge for about five days when stored properly.

Is there a vegetarian version of Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery?

Absolutely! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delightful vegetarian option.

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