Description
Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a hearty and nutritious Mediterranean-inspired dish made with tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and fragrant spices simmered to perfection in a savory vegetable broth. This comforting and filling soup is easy to prepare, packed with fiber and protein, and perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil until it shimmers to create a flavorful base for the soup.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add lentils and spices: Pour in the rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes. Then add the vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
- Bring to boil: Increase heat and bring the soup mixture to a rolling boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently, uncovered, for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the lemon juice if using, to add brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the soup warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- To make the soup heartier, add diced potatoes or chopped spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- For a creamier texture, partially blend the soup with an immersion blender before serving.
- Adjust salt and spice levels according to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
