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Best Lentil Soup

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A simple, hearty, and flavorful lentil soup that’s budget-friendly and perfect for meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 can (14–15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1–2 teaspoons kosher salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1–2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 2 cups chopped spinach or kale (optional)
  • Fresh parsley and extra olive oil, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, carrot, and celery with a pinch of salt. Cook for 5–7 minutes.
  3. Stir in garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute.
  4. Add tomato paste; cook for 1–2 minutes to caramelize.
  5. Stir in diced tomatoes, lentils, bay leaf, and broth.
  6. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
  7. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
  8. Remove bay leaf. Stir in lemon juice and greens; cook for 2–3 minutes.
  9. Serve with parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

Lemon juice adds a refreshing brightness to the soup. It stores well and can be frozen for later.

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