This lentil soup is a nutritious and filling dish that showcases the flavors of American cuisine. Packed with protein-rich lentils, vegetables, and spices, it makes for a comforting meal any time of the year.
The recipe is simple and can be prepared in one pot, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or additional vegetables.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The foundation of a great lentil soup lies in its ingredients.
Start with dried lentils, which are not only nutritious but also provide a hearty texture.
Complement these with fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions.
These vegetables add layers of flavor and nutrients, making the soup a wholesome choice.
Don’t forget the spices! Ground cumin and dried thyme elevate the taste, while a bay leaf infuses a subtle depth.
Finally, a drizzle of olive oil brings everything together, enhancing the overall richness of the dish.
Preparation Steps to Follow
Preparing this lentil soup is straightforward and can be done in one pot, which simplifies cleanup.
Begin by rinsing the lentils and chopping the vegetables.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until they soften.
Next, add minced garlic along with the spices, allowing them to release their aromas.
Then, introduce the lentils and broth to the pot, bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer.
After about 25-30 minutes, the lentils should be tender and ready for seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Once your soup is ready, it’s time to serve.
Ladle the steaming soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
A slice of crusty bread on the side is perfect for dipping and adds a satisfying crunch to each bite.
This combination not only makes for a visually appealing meal but also enhances the overall dining experience.
Health Benefits of Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is not just comforting; it’s also packed with health benefits.
Lentils are an excellent source of protein, making this soup a great option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.
They are rich in fiber, which supports digestive health and helps keep you feeling full longer.
The addition of vegetables boosts the nutrient content, providing vitamins and minerals essential for overall well-being.
With low calories and healthy fats, this soup is a nourishing choice for any meal.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the best aspects of lentil soup is its versatility.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or herbs.
Consider incorporating spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
You can also experiment with different spices or even a splash of vinegar for a tangy twist.
This adaptability allows you to make the soup your own while still enjoying its comforting essence.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing them is simple.
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
It can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.
When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to restore the desired consistency.
This ensures that each bowl remains as delicious as the first, ready to warm you up whenever you need it.
Easy Lentil Soup Recipe
This lentil soup features tender lentils simmered with carrots, celery, and onions in a savory broth. The recipe takes about 45 minutes from start to finish and serves 6 people.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Rinse the lentils and chop the vegetables.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Lentils: Add the rinsed lentils and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season: Remove the bay leaf and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
