Ingredients

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• Onion: 1 large, chopped
• Celery stalks: 2, chopped
• Carrots: 2 medium, diced
• Garlic: 2–3 cloves, crushed

Spices and Seasonings:

• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Cumin: 1 teaspoon
• Dried oregano: 1 teaspoon
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Salt: To taste
• Black pepper: To taste

Liquid Base and Add-Ins:

• Diced or chopped tomatoes: 1 can (14 oz/400 g)
• Vegetable stock: 8 cups (2 L)
• Dried lentils: 2 cups (380 g), rinsed

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley or coriander: 2–3 tablespoons, chopped
• Fresh lemon juice: 2 tablespoons

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings and Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 6–8 bowls
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 200 kcal
• Macronutrients (per serving):
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fat: 5 g

Steps to Make Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

1. Prepare the Vegetables

• Begin by chopping the onion, celery, and carrots into small, even pieces. Crush or finely mince the garlic cloves.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions turn translucent.
• Stir in the crushed garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the Spices

• Sprinkle the cumin, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and black pepper over the vegetables. Stir to coat them evenly with the spices, cooking for 1–2 minutes to release the aromas.

4. Incorporate the Liquid Base

• Pour in the canned diced tomatoes, including their juices. Stir well to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
• Add the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

5. Add the Lentils

• Stir in the rinsed lentils. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but not mushy.

6. Finish with Fresh Ingredients

• Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped parsley or coriander and fresh lemon juice. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if necessary.

7. Serve

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra herbs or a slice of lemon, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a timeless dish because it celebrates the beauty of simplicity. Lentils, a staple in cuisines worldwide, are not only affordable but also highly nutritious, providing an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber. When combined with vegetables and a flavorful broth, lentils transform into a comforting and satisfying meal that has stood the test of time.

This soup’s adaptability adds to its enduring appeal. You can customize it by adding seasonal vegetables, swapping lentils for other legumes, or adjusting the spices to match your palate. Its straightforward preparation makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while its wholesome ingredients align with modern trends toward healthy, sustainable eating.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fat: 5 g
• Fiber: 8 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 400 mg

FAQs

1. Can I use red lentils instead of dried brown or green lentils?
Yes, red lentils cook faster and break down more, creating a creamier texture. Adjust the cooking time to 15–20 minutes.

2. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

4. How can I add more protein?
You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas to boost the protein content.

Tips for Perfect Lentil Soup

1. Choose the Right Lentils: Brown or green lentils hold their shape better during cooking, while red lentils create a creamier texture.
2. Layer the Flavors: Sauté the vegetables and spices thoroughly to deepen the flavor profile.
3. Adjust the Consistency: For a thicker soup, blend a portion of it and stir it back in. For a thinner soup, add more stock or water.
4. Finish Fresh: The addition of fresh herbs and lemon juice at the end brightens the dish, balancing the earthy flavors.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.
• Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze extra portions for quick, healthy meals during busy weeks.

Conclusion

Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup is more than just a dish—it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this soup embodies the essence of home-cooked meals that nourish both body and soul. Its timeless nature lies in its versatility, simplicity, and universal appeal.

The combination of tender lentils, vibrant vegetables, and warming spices creates a symphony of flavors that is both satisfying and energizing. The final touch of fresh herbs and lemon juice elevates the dish, making it feel bright and refreshing with every bite.

This recipe is a celebration of how the simplest ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re serving it to loved ones, enjoying it as part of your meal prep routine, or sharing it at a gathering, Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a dish that never fails to deliver comfort and joy.

So gather your ingredients, let the aroma of sautéed vegetables and spices fill your kitchen, and enjoy the timeless pleasure of a bowl of homemade soup. This recipe is not just food; it’s a reminder of the warmth and connection that cooking brings to our lives