Name: Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 carrots, peeled and sliced; 1 cup red lentils, rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

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If you’re looking for a bowl of comfort that’s not only delicious but packed with nourishing ingredients, this Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe is about to become your new kitchen favorite. Combining the natural sweetness of carrots with the hearty, protein-rich lentils and a cozy mix of spices, this soup offers a velvety texture and vibrant flavor that warms you up from the inside out. It’s a simple, wholesome meal that works perfectly for a quick lunch, meal prepping for the week, or whenever you crave something both healthy and satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a flat lay of fresh and dry cooking ingredients placed neatly on a white marbled surface. In the center lies a bunch of three fresh orange carrots with green tops, slightly angled downwards. To the top left, a clear glass bowl holds a thick white creamy liquid. On the top right side next to the carrots, an amber glass bowl with orange lentils fills the frame. Below the lentils is a small white measuring cup filled with chopped white onions. To the far right, a small glass pitcher holds a pale green olive oil, and below it, a small glass measuring cup contains a golden liquid. Above the carrots, a dark wooden tray displays three garlic cloves and a small spoon with chili flakes and powder. At the bottom left, a white bowl contains a dark broth with a silver spoon resting inside. Beside the broth, another dark wooden tray holds five decorative spoons filled with different spices in vibrant red, brown, yellow, and beige tones. Lastly, a small white bowl with the label

This recipe wonderfully balances simplicity and flavor, featuring ingredients that are easy to find but essential to creating the perfect harmony of taste and texture. Each component contributes to the bright orange hue, the smooth consistency, and the rich, earthy depth that make this soup so unforgettable.

Olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing the aromatics and adds a subtle richness.
Onion: Adds natural sweetness and depth when cooked down.
Garlic: Offers a fragrant punch that complements the spices perfectly.
Carrots: The star ingredient, delivering sweetness, vibrant color, and nutrients.
Red lentils: They cook quickly and disintegrate into creamy protein-packed goodness.
Vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful liquid base keeping everything moist and tender.
Ground cumin: Adds a warm, earthy note and subtle smokiness.
Paprika: Imparts color and a gentle sweet pepper flavor that lifts the soup.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing the natural flavors.
Fresh parsley: A fresh, herbal garnish to brighten every spoonful.

How to Make Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your olive oil in a sturdy pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they become fragrant and translucent. This step builds the flavorful foundation for your soup, softening the onions and mellowing the garlic’s bite.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Lentils

Next, toss in the sliced carrots and rinsed red lentils. These two ingredients will transform into the hearty base of your soup. Stir everything together so the carrots and lentils are coated with the warm onion and garlic mixture, allowing their flavors to mingle before adding the liquids.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Spices

Now pour in the vegetable broth along with your ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. These spices infuse the soup with warm notes that perfectly complement the sweetness of the carrots. Stir everything, turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Reduce your heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 20 to 25 minutes. This allows the carrots and lentils to soften completely, creating a naturally thick texture that is both satisfying and nutritious. Keep an eye on the pot to prevent sticking, giving it a stir every now and then.

Step 5: Blend to Perfection (Optional)

If you prefer a silky smooth soup, this is the perfect moment to use an immersion blender. Carefully blend the soup directly in the pot until you reach your desired consistency. You can leave it a little chunky for more bite or go fully creamy for that comforting texture that hugs your spoon.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish your Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe by sprinkling fresh parsley over the top. This final touch adds a burst of color and a fresh herbal flavor that balances the earthiness beautifully.

How to Serve Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe

A small white bowl with red stripes on the outside is filled with smooth, bright orange soup. On top of the soup is a dollop of white cream, sprinkled with small dark seeds and garnished with bright green cilantro leaves. The bowl sits on a light wooden tray with round, flat toasted bread pieces nearby. In the background, there is an out-of-focus arrangement with a yellowish tone on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic choice, but you can also experiment with a dollop of vegan yogurt, a sprinkle of toasted seeds, or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil to elevate each serving. These simple touches add texture and layers of flavor that transform your soup into something extra special.

Side Dishes

This soup shines alongside warm, crusty bread or garlic naan for dipping. For a lighter meal, pair it with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon juice and olive oil. The contrast between the rich soup and bright, fresh sides makes for a well-rounded, satisfying lunch or dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving the soup in rustic bowls garnished with microgreens or edible flowers for a stunning presentation. Or turn it into a wholesome lunch jar by layering soup with crunchy toppings like roasted chickpeas or crispy shallots just before serving.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Store it in airtight containers to preserve freshness and flavor, so you can enjoy a nutritious meal without any hassle throughout the week.

Freezing

If you want to keep this soup ready for longer, freezing works wonderfully. Cool the soup completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months and still maintain its delicious texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If it has thickened too much, simply add a splash of broth or water to adjust the consistency to your liking.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils for this Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe?

Red lentils are preferred because they cook quickly and break down easily, creating a creamy texture. However, green or brown lentils can be used, but they require longer cooking times and will keep a firmer texture, making the soup heartier.

Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?

Absolutely! This recipe uses only plant-based ingredients, making it perfectly vegan and gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy it without worry.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Definitely! For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped fresh chili when adding the spices. It adds a lovely warmth that balances the natural sweetness of the carrots.

What’s the best way to adjust the soup’s thickness?

If you find the soup too thick after blending, just stir in extra vegetable broth or water a little at a time until you reach the texture you prefer. It’s all about personal taste!

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Of course! Feel free to toss in diced potatoes, sweet potatoes, or even a handful of spinach towards the end of cooking. This is your chance to make the recipe your own while keeping the soul of the Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe intact.

Final Thoughts

This Carrot and Lentil Soup Recipe is such a joy to make and eat, offering comfort, nutrition, and flavor all in one vibrant bowl. Whether you’re new to cooking lentil soups or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Don’t wait to try it out and share the delicious, cozy goodness with your loved ones!