What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This homemade lentil soup is perfect for cozy nights or busy weeknights—it’s hearty, healthy, and simple to make. You’ll love how the flavors come together in every spoonful.
- It’s packed with wholesome ingredients like lentils, veggies, and spices, making it both filling and nutritious.
- You can customize it easily by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!
Recipe
Warm up with a hearty bowl of homemade lentil soup, packed with nutritious ingredients and rich flavors. This simple recipe is perfect for a comforting meal anytime.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes:
Adjust the thickness by adding more broth if needed. For extra flavor, sauté a tablespoon of tomato paste with the vegetables.
Equipment:
Large pot, wooden spoon, cutting board, knife
Time:
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Cuisine:
Mediterranean
Serving:
Serves 4-6
Nutrition
This homemade lentil soup is packed with nutrients and offers a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 230 kcal |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 35 g |
| Fiber | 10 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Potassium | 600 mg |
| Iron | 4 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my homemade lentil soup with a warm slice of crusty bread for dipping—it’s the perfect way to soak up every last bit of flavor. If I’m feeling a little extra, I’ll add a fresh, crisp salad on the side to balance out the meal. It’s a simple combo, but it always feels so satisfying and complete.
Crusty Bread Pairings
When I’m craving a cozy, hearty bowl of lentil soup, I can’t resist pairing it with a slice of crusty bread—it’s like they were made for each other. A warm, freshly baked baguette, with its crisp exterior and soft inside, is my go-to. Sourdough adds a tangy twist that complements the soup’s earthy flavors, while a rustic whole-grain loaf brings extra texture and nuttiness. Sometimes, I’ll toast it lightly and rub it with garlic for an extra punch. Dipping the bread into the soup creates the perfect bite, making every spoonful even more satisfying.
Fresh Salad Options
Though lentil soup is hearty on its own, pairing it with a fresh salad adds a bright, invigorating contrast that’s hard to beat. I love a simple mixed greens salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette—it cuts through the soup’s richness perfectly. For something heartier, try a kale and quinoa salad with lemon dressing, or a classic Greek salad with feta and olives. If you’re feeling adventurous, a shredded carrot and beet salad adds sweetness and crunch. Whatever you choose, keep it light and fresh to balance the soup’s warmth. Trust me, the combo’s a winner!
