Veg Lentil Soup Recipe for a Healthy, Hearty Meal

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of veg lentil soup on a chilly day. This hearty, nutritious soup combines the earthy goodness of lentils with fresh vegetables and fragrant spices, making it a perfect meal for any season.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a cozy dinner, or a nutritious meal prep option, this recipe will not disappoint. Not only is it packed with protein and fiber, but it also offers a wonderful depth of flavor with minimal effort.

What makes this veg lentil soup truly special is its versatility and ease of preparation. It’s ideal for beginners and seasoned cooks alike, requiring simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. Ready to learn how to make a delicious, soul-warming soup that will become your go-to?

Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This veg lentil soup recipe is a true kitchen hero for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly nourishing — lentils provide a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, which help keep you full and satisfied.

The fresh vegetables add vitamins and minerals, making the soup a complete, balanced meal.

Second, it’s easy and quick to prepare. You’ll spend less than an hour from start to finish, with most of the cooking time spent simmering.

There’s minimal chopping involved, and one pot is all you need!

Lastly, this soup is highly customizable. You can adjust the vegetables based on what’s in season or add your favorite spices to suit your palate.

It freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
• Juice of half a lemon (optional, for brightness)

Equipment

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Fine mesh sieve or colander (for rinsing lentils)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables: Rinse and chop the onion, garlic, carrots, celery, and potato into bite-sized pieces. Rinse the lentils in cold water using a fine mesh sieve.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables and lentils: Add the carrots, celery, potato, and rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine with the spices and onion mixture.
4. Pour in liquids and season: Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
5. Simmer the soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 35-40 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
6. Adjust seasoning and finish: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper if needed. For a hint of brightness, stir in the lemon juice just before serving.
7. Serve and garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or a light salad.

Tips & Variations

“For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender, then return it to the pot.”

• Use red lentils: If you prefer a softer, more porridge-like soup, swap brown lentils for red lentils, but reduce cooking time to about 20-25 minutes as they cook faster.
• Add greens: Stir in chopped spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red chili flakes for some heat.
• Make it smoky: Use smoked paprika and add a splash of liquid smoke or chipotle powder for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients except lemon juice and fresh herbs in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This veg lentil soup is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a hearty, satisfying meal, serve it with a slice of crusty artisan bread or warm pita for dipping.

A side of steamed rice or quinoa can also complement the flavors and add extra bulk for those with bigger appetites.

If you want to keep it light, pair the soup with a fresh green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or a simple avocado toast also make excellent companions.

For more wholesome vegetable-based meal ideas, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or try some inspiration from Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating. And if you love bread with your soup, don’t miss the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

This veg lentil soup recipe is a wonderful addition to any home cook’s repertoire. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and easy to customize to your liking.

The combination of lentils and fresh vegetables creates a balanced meal that’s perfect for lunches, dinners, or meal prep. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day!

Whether you’re new to plant-based cooking or simply looking for a healthy, comforting meal, this soup hits all the right notes. It’s budget-friendly, wholesome, and adaptable for different tastes and dietary needs.

Take a few moments to prepare this easy recipe, and you’ll soon appreciate why it’s a beloved classic for so many.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site to keep your meals exciting and nutritious!

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