Name: Lentil & Vegetable Soup – Your Go-To Wellness Comfort Food!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: international
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped); 6 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 bay leaves; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp cumin; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); ½ tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lentil & Vegetable Soup is the perfect combination of nourishment, comfort, and ease. Packed with protein-rich lentils, an array of colorful vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this dish offers a hearty yet wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re looking for a warm bowl on a chilly evening, a meal-prep-friendly dish, or a plant-based powerhouse packed with fiber and vitamins, this soup delivers on all fronts. Plus, it’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and highly customizable to suit any dietary preference.

Ingredients

Lentils (green or brown work best)
Onion
Garlic
Carrots
Celery
Tomatoes (fresh or canned)
Vegetable broth
Spinach or kale
Olive oil
Bay leaves
Thyme
Cumin
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon juice

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients – Rinse the lentils thoroughly under running water. Chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into small, uniform pieces.
Sauté the Aromatics – Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.
Add Vegetables and Spices – Stir in the carrots, celery, and tomatoes. Sprinkle in thyme, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Simmer the Soup – Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils along with bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Incorporate Greens – Stir in spinach or kale and allow it to wilt in the hot soup.
Final Touches – Remove the bay leaves and squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup for a burst of brightness.
Serve and Enjoy – Ladle into bowls and serve warm. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Protein Boost – Include chickpeas or diced tofu for added protein.
Grain Addition – Stir in cooked quinoa, rice, or barley for extra heartiness.
Creamy Version – Blend a portion of the soup to create a thicker consistency.
Different Greens – Swap out spinach for Swiss chard, collard greens, or bok choy.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4-6 servings

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture if needed. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

How do I prevent the lentils from becoming mushy?

Use green or brown lentils as they hold their shape better than red lentils, which tend to break down more easily.

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, but reduce the cooking time as canned lentils are already soft. Add them in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled cheese make excellent pairings.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Combine all ingredients except the greens and lemon juice in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the greens and lemon juice at the end.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your broth is gluten-free, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I add meat?

Absolutely! Shredded chicken, turkey, or sausage are great additions.

How can I thicken the soup?

Blend a portion of the soup or mash some of the lentils with a spoon for a thicker consistency.

Can I add potatoes?

Yes! Dice and add potatoes with the other vegetables for a heartier soup.

What type of broth should I use?

Vegetable broth keeps it vegan, but chicken broth can be used for a richer flavor.

Can I meal-prep this soup?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Store in portioned containers for easy grab-and-go meals.

Conclusion

Lentil & Vegetable Soup is a delicious, nutrient-packed, and versatile dish that can be enjoyed any time of the year. Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal on a cold day or a healthy addition to your meal plan, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Try it today and savor every nourishing bite!

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