If you’re looking for a warm and nourishing dish that feels like a big hug, this lentil vegetable soup is just what you need. Perfect for chilly days, this recipe is not only comforting but also packed with nutrients. With ingredients you likely have in your pantry, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
This soup combines earthy lentils with a rainbow of vegetables, creating a deliciously wholesome bowl. The flavors meld beautifully as the soup simmers, and you can easily tailor it to your liking by adding different veggies or spices. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, this lentil vegetable soup is straightforward and forgiving, making it a staple recipe to return to time and again.
Comforting Lentil Vegetable Soup
This lentil soup serves as an ideal choice for chilly days, delivering a thick and hearty experience with every spoonful. Combining tender lentils with vibrant carrots, celery, and tomatoes creates a nutritious meal that satisfies both the palate and the body.
The soup’s flavor profile is a delightful blend of savory and slightly sweet notes, making it a filling option that leaves you feeling content. The addition of fresh herbs like parsley not only enhances the presentation but also adds a hint of freshness to each serving.
Colorful Ingredients for Nutritional Benefits
The vibrant medley of ingredients in this soup not only pleases the eye but also contributes to a well-rounded nutritional profile. Lentils are packed with protein and fiber, helping to keep you full and energized.
Alongside lentils, a variety of vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers provide essential vitamins and minerals. This colorful combination ensures that each bowl is not only delicious but also a wholesome choice for any meal.
Cooking Process: A Simple Yet Rewarding Experience
Preparing lentil vegetable soup is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels. The process begins with sautéing onions and bell peppers, filling your kitchen with inviting aromas as they soften in olive oil.
Next, the addition of garlic and spices infuses the mix with depth, while the lentils and tomatoes bring heartiness to the dish. As the ingredients simmer together, their flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying soup.
The Perfect Accompaniments
A bowl of hearty lentil vegetable soup is always enhanced with a side of crusty bread. This pairing not only adds texture but also provides an additional layer of satisfaction to your meal.
Whether you choose to dip the bread into the soup or enjoy it alongside, the combination is sure to warm you up during those cooler days. Together, they create a simple yet delightful dining experience that brings comfort to the table.
Meal Prep and Storage Ideas
This lentil vegetable soup is an excellent option for meal prep, allowing you to create a large batch that can be stored and enjoyed throughout the week. The flavors deepen and improve over time, making it a reliable choice for easy lunches or dinners.
To store, simply let the soup cool before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be refrigerated for several days or frozen for even longer, ensuring you have a nourishing meal ready whenever you need it.
Customizing Your Soup
One of the many appealing aspects of this lentil vegetable soup is its versatility. You can easily tailor the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or spices. Consider adding zucchini, sweet potatoes, or even leafy greens like spinach for added texture and flavor.
Adjusting the seasonings can also provide a unique twist. A dash of chili powder or smoked paprika can bring warmth, while a squeeze of lemon juice before serving can brighten the dish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make it your own.
Comforting Lentil Vegetable Soup
This lentil soup is a thick and hearty dish, brimming with tender lentils, vibrant carrots, celery, and tomatoes. It’s a nutritious, filling meal that’s both savory and slightly sweet, leaving you feeling satisfied and cozy.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine Lentils and Broth: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
- Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy hot!
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: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
