Recipe for Vegetable Soup With Lentils That Warms Your Soul

There’s something deeply comforting about a warm bowl of vegetable soup with lentils. It’s not only nourishing but also packed with vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients that come together to create a hearty meal perfect for any season.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a filling dinner, or a nutritious way to boost your immune system, this vegetable soup with lentils recipe hits all the marks. The lentils add a lovely texture and protein punch, while the medley of vegetables provides a rainbow of nutrients and natural sweetness.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and budget-friendly, making it a staple in many kitchens.

If you love wholesome, plant-based dishes that require minimal fuss but deliver maximum flavor, you’re going to adore this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetable soup with lentils is a fantastic way to enjoy a balanced meal in a single bowl. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Nutritious and filling: Lentils provide essential protein and fiber, keeping you satisfied longer.
• Flavorful and comforting: A mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a rich taste profile.
• Simple and quick: Ready in about 45 minutes with easy-to-find ingredients.
• Customizable: You can swap vegetables and spices depending on your preferences and what’s in season.
• Perfect for all diets: This soup is vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free, great for a wide range of dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and cubed
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or ladle
• Colander or sieve (for rinsing lentils)
• Blender or immersion blender (optional, for creamier texture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the lentils: Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water and set aside.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots, celery, potato, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Season and combine: Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
5. Add lentils and liquids: Pour in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and vegetable broth. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
6. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer gently for 30-35 minutes or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
7. Add greens and lemon juice: If using, stir in the chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the pot from heat and add the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
8. Optional blending: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, or transfer a few cups to a blender and blend until smooth, then stir back into the pot.
9. Adjust seasonings: Taste and add more salt, pepper, or spices as needed.
10. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

“Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite seasonal veggies or herbs in this soup! Lentils are forgiving and pair well with many flavors.”

• Make it smoky: Add a chipotle pepper in adobo or a dash of liquid smoke for a smoky depth.
• Spice it up: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne or red chili flakes for some heat. For a homemade spice blend, check out our Chilli Powder Recipe Vegan: Easy Homemade Spice Blend.
• Use different lentils: Red lentils cook faster and break down to create a thicker soup, while green or brown lentils hold their shape better.
• Add grains: Stir in cooked quinoa or rice near the end to make the soup even heartier.
• Make it creamy: Blend in some coconut milk or cashew cream for a luscious texture.
• Slow cooker version: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a hands-off approach.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetable soup with lentils is a meal in itself, but here are some ideas to complement and elevate your dining experience:

• Serve with warm whole-grain bread or crusty baguette for dipping.
• Top with a dollop of plant-based yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Add a side salad with fresh greens and a zesty vinaigrette for a light contrast.
• Pair with a grain bowl featuring quinoa or brown rice and roasted vegetables for a fuller meal.
• For a cozy twist, serve with a side of our Banana Pancake Recipe Men Eat Vegan Too Made Easy for a sweet-savory combo.

Conclusion

Whether you’re new to cooking with lentils or a seasoned home chef, this vegetable soup with lentils recipe is a wonderful addition to your kitchen repertoire. It’s a nourishing, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that suits a variety of tastes and dietary needs.

The best part is how adaptable it is—feel free to swap vegetables or spices depending on what you have on hand or the season. This soup not only warms the body but also feeds the soul with its wholesome ingredients and comforting aroma.

For more creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, be sure to explore our extensive collection of recipes like A to Z Vegetarian Recipes for Every Meal and Occasion and Ancient Grains Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy Delicious Meals.

You’ll find plenty of inspiration to keep your meals exciting, nutritious, and delicious!

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