Slow Cooker Red Lentil and Vegetable Soup

As the weather cools down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to comfort the soul. This Slow Cooker Red Lentil and Vegetable Soup combines the wholesome goodness of red lentils, fresh vegetables, and a blend of savory spices, making it a perfect choice for any day of the week. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while you go about your day. The addition of balsamic vinegar at the end gives this soup a delightful tang, enhancing the natural sweetness of the honey and the warmth of the spices. Perfect for meal prep, a quick dinner, or serving guests, this soup is sure to satisfy.

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5-6 hours (in the slow cooker)
  • Total Time: 5-6 hours 15 minutes

Servings

  • Servings: 6

Ingredients

  • 1 carton (32 ounces) Reduced-Sodium Chicken Broth (approx. 950 ml)
  • 3 Celery Ribs, chopped (approx. 150 g)
  • 2 Medium Carrots, chopped (approx. 150 g)
  • 2 Medium Red Potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch cubes (approx. 300 g)
  • 1 cup Sweet Onion, chopped (approx. 150 g)
  • 1 cup Dried Red Lentils, rinsed (approx. 200 g)
  • 1 tablespoon Honey (approx. 21 g)
  • 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon Salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/4 cup Balsamic Vinegar (approx. 60 ml)
  • Optional Garnishes: Shaved Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, balsamic glaze drizzle

Directions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a 3- or 4-quart slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, celery, carrots, red potatoes, sweet onion, red lentils, honey, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and garlic powder.
  2. Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 5-6 hours, or until the vegetables and lentils are tender.
  3. Finish with Balsamic Vinegar: Stir in the balsamic vinegar just before serving.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with shaved Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze if desired. Serve hot.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
  • Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
  • Pair with a glass of red wine to enhance the balsamic flavors.
  • Serve over a bed of quinoa or rice for a more substantial dish.

Cooking Tips

  • For a thicker soup, mash some of the potatoes and lentils before adding the balsamic vinegar.
  • Add more vegetables like spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition.
  • Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make the soup vegetarian or vegan.
  • Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Rich in Fiber: Lentils and vegetables provide a high amount of dietary fiber, which aids digestion.
  • High in Protein: Lentils are a great plant-based source of protein, making this soup filling and nutritious.
  • Low in Fat: This soup is naturally low in fat, with no saturated fats, making it heart-healthy.
  • Rich in Vitamins and Minerals: Packed with vitamins A and C from the vegetables and potassium from the potatoes.

Dietary Information

  • Vegetarian: Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
  • Vegan: Yes, use vegetable broth and omit the Parmesan cheese.
  • Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients used are certified gluten-free.
  • Dairy-Free: Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, 1 cup)

  • Calories: 145
  • Fat: 0g (0g saturated fat)
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 459mg
  • Carbohydrates: 28g (7g sugars, 4g fiber)
  • Protein: 8g

Storage

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Freeze: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
  • Reheat: Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to make: Just combine the ingredients in your slow cooker and let it do the work.
  • Healthy and nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lentils, this soup is a wholesome meal.
  • Versatile: Enjoy it as a light lunch or pair it with sides for a more filling dinner.
  • Comforting: The warm, hearty flavors make it perfect for cold days or whenever you need a comforting meal.

Conclusion

This Slow Cooker Red Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a delicious and nutritious option for anyone looking for an easy and healthy meal. The combination of lentils, vegetables, and flavorful seasonings makes this soup both satisfying and flavorful. The slow cooking process allows all the ingredients to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Give it a try and enjoy the simple, wholesome goodness it offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red?
    Yes, but they may require a longer cooking time and result in a slightly different texture.
  2. Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a slow cooker?
    Yes, simmer the ingredients in a large pot for about 30-40 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
  3. Is the honey necessary?
    The honey adds a slight sweetness to balance the flavors, but you can omit it if you prefer.
  4. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
    Yes, use 2-3 cloves of minced fresh garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
  5. Can I add meat to this soup?
    Yes, diced chicken or sausage can be added for extra protein.
  6. How can I reduce the sodium content?
    Use low-sodium broth and reduce the amount of salt added.
  7. Can I use white potatoes instead of red potatoes?
    Yes, white potatoes will work just as well in this recipe.
  8. What other seasonings can I add?
    Add bay leaves, thyme, or rosemary for additional flavor.
  9. Can I make this soup thicker?
    Yes, mash some of the potatoes and lentils or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.
  10. How can I make this soup spicier?
    Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.