🥣 A Bowl Full of Comfort: Easy Lentil Soup Recipe
When the weather turns chilly or you just need a cozy, soul-hugging meal, this hearty lentil soup with carrots and herbs is a lifesaver. It’s filling, flavorful, easy to make, and full of plant-based protein.
Whether you're meal prepping or looking for a comforting one-pot dinner, this lentil soup will become a go-to in your kitchen.
⭐ Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Sauté the aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Add chopped onions and sauté for 2–3 minutes until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add vegetables & spices
Stir in diced carrots, celery (if using), thyme, and cumin. Cook for 3–4 minutes to bring out the flavors.
3. Simmer the soup
Add lentils, salt, pepper, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Blend (optional)
For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, or leave it chunky for more bite.
5. Add lemon & garnish
Stir in lemon juice (optional). Garnish with chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving.
🍞 What to Serve with Lentil Soup
- Warm crusty bread
- Garlic toast
- A scoop of plain yogurt or a swirl of coconut cream
- Side salad with olive oil & lemon
💡 Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Protein boost: Add chickpeas or white beans.
- Storage: Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- Gluten-free: Naturally gluten-free and vegan.
📌 Why You'll Love This Recipe
- One-pot magic (less cleanup!)
- Packed with nutrients & fiber
- Super affordable ingredients
- Customizable with what's in your pantry
- Freezer-friendly and meal prep–approved
🥣 Hearty Lentil Soup with Carrots & Herbs
Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 40 mins
Servings: 4 bowls | Diet: Vegan, Gluten-Free
📝 Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced (optional)
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme or oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional)
- Chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions
- Sauté: Heat olive oil in a pot. Add onions and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Vegetables & Spices: Stir in carrots, celery, thyme, and cumin. Sauté for 3–4 minutes.
- Simmer: Add lentils, broth, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils are soft.
- Optional blend: Use an immersion blender for a creamier texture if desired.
- Finish: Add lemon juice and garnish with herbs before serving.
✨ Tips & Serving Ideas
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.
- Add a swirl of coconut cream for richness.
- Stores well in the fridge for 5 days or freezer for 3 months.
- Spice it up with chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
Healthy, hearty, and delicious — perfect for cozy nights or weekly meal prep.
0 Comments