Hearty Lentil & Vegetable Soup
Cozy Up with Hearty Lentil & Vegetable Soup: A Flavorful & Nutritious Meal
As the days get shorter and the weather turns cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup. Today, we’re sharing our recipe for Hearty Lentil & Vegetable Soup – a dish packed with flavor, nutrients, and goodness. This isn’t just any lentil soup; it’s a vibrant blend of Mediterranean and American influences, creating a truly satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup incredibly filling and good for you. We’ve combined them with classic soup vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion, then boosted the flavor with aromatic spices like cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme. The result? A soup that’s both healthy and delicious!
What makes this soup special?
- Flavorful Spice Blend: The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme creates a warm, inviting flavor profile.
- Nutrient-Rich: Packed with lentils, vegetables, and fiber, this soup is a powerhouse of nutrition.
- Easy to Make: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a total cook time of 45 minutes, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile: Enjoy it as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or even meal prep for the week.
Tips for the Best Lentil Soup:
- Rinse the Lentils: Rinsing the lentils before cooking helps remove any debris and ensures a cleaner-tasting soup.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the lentils and cook them until they are tender but still hold their shape.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Add a Splash of Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use different vegetables?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, zucchini, or kale.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes! This soup tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free and vegan?
A: Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free and vegan.
Q: Can I use canned lentils?
A: While you can, we recommend using dried lentils for the best texture and flavor. If using canned, reduce the simmering time.
Q: What broth should I use?
A: Vegetable broth is recommended for a vegan option, but chicken or beef broth can also be used if you’re not vegetarian.
We hope you enjoy this comforting and flavorful Hearty Lentil & Vegetable Soup as much as we do! It’s a perfect way to nourish your body and soul on a chilly day.
Hearty Lentil & Vegetable Soup
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 medium carrots chopped
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup dried brown lentils rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes with juice
- 2 cups fresh spinach roughly chopped
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic, cumin, paprika, and thyme and cook for 1 minute more.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add lentils and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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