This easy Lentil soup is the ultimate weeknight dinner—nutritious, flavorful, and satisfying. My recipe takes this classic dish up a notch, transforming it into a cozy, comforting meal that’s anything but bland.
With simple ingredients that are both affordable and likely already in your pantry, this best lentil soup recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. All you need is a sturdy pot, a good knife, and basic kitchen tools.
This family-favorite soup gets its depth from warm spices and bay leaves, with a final splash of lemon adding a bright finish. Whether you choose green, red, or brown lentils, each brings a unique texture and flavor to the dish.
For those craving a heartier meal, consider trying the Beef & Lentil Soup variation, packed with extra protein and just as delicious.
This is a dish guaranteed to have everyone reaching for seconds!
Easy Lentil Soup: A Worldly Comfort Food for Every Kitchen
This lentil soup recipe is a lifesaver on busy weeknights, easily whipped up with ingredients often found in my pantry. Known for its warming qualities and satisfying texture, lentil soup has been a staple in Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian cuisines for centuries.
While this recipe has its roots in these regions, lentil soups are enjoyed globally, each version offering unique flavors and ingredients.
Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and iron, this hearty and nutritious dish is perfect whether you’re craving a cozy winter warmer or a light springtime meal.
Table of Contents
What Makes This Recipe So Special
This easy lentil soup is:
- Quick and Simple: Ready in about 40 minutes, it’s a great weeknight option.
- Family-Friendly: My kids love it, and it’s versatile enough for different dietary preferences.
- Nutritious and Satisfying: Rich in protein and fiber, it’s a wholesome meal in a bowl.
- Customizable: Swap veggies, adjust spices, and add garnishes for a unique twist.
- Meal Prep-Friendly: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Lentil Soup Ingredients and Substitutes
This recipe uses simple ingredients you might already have in your kitchen, making it convenient and budget-friendly. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Lentils: Use brown or green lentils, which hold their shape well. If you only have red lentils, they work too but will give a creamier texture.
- Olive Oil: Adds a rich flavor, but you can substitute with coconut oil or avocado oil for different flavor notes.
- Onion, Carrot, and Celery & Spinach: The classic soup base, known as mirepoix. Use leeks instead of onions for a slightly sweeter, delicate taste.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are best, but garlic powder works if you’re out.
- Broth or Stock: Vegetable broth keeps it vegan, but chicken or beef broth can add depth.
- Tomatoes: Adds brightness. Use canned diced tomatoes for convenience or fresh tomatoes if you prefer.
- Spices: Cumin, coriander, and thyme give warmth and depth. Swap with oregano or rosemary for a different taste.
- Bay Leaf: Optional, but enhances the soup’s aroma.
- Salt and Pepper: Season to taste, and adjust after cooking as flavors concentrate.
Optional Add-Ins and Toppings
- Leafy Greens: Stir in spinach or kale at the end for added nutrients.
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness; a squeeze of lemon just before serving works wonders.
- Garnishes: Top with fresh parsley, cilantro, or a dollop of yogurt for a creamier finish.
Expert Tips for the Best Lentil Soup
- Use Fresh Spices: Fresh spices bring out the best flavors in the soup. If they’ve been sitting in your pantry for too long, consider buying new ones for the best result.
- Simmer Low and Slow: Cooking on a lower heat lets the flavors meld beautifully.
- Don’t Salt Too Early: Wait to salt until the lentils are mostly cooked, as adding salt too soon can make them tough.
- Texture Control: Use a stick blender if you want a smoother texture, but leave some chunks for a hearty bite.
Recipe Notes
- Lentil Prep: Lentils don’t need to be soaked, but a quick rinse helps remove debris and reduces cooking time.
- Vegetable Variations: Add or substitute any other favorite veggies you have on hand, like zucchini or bell peppers.
- Adjusting Consistency: Add more broth or water if the soup gets too thick as it cooks.
How to Make Lentil Soup
Sauté Vegetables:
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté for a minute or two then add chopped celery and carrot , cooking for another 7–10 minutes until softened, this step builds the flavor foundation of the soup, so take your time with it.
Add Remaining Ingredients:
Add the remaining ingredients (lentil, spices, diced tomatoes & tomato paste, chicken or vegetable broth) except for the spinach, lemon and salt, stirring to combine.
Simmer On Low Flame:
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a simmer, skimming any foam from the surface as it forms.
Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Then add spinach and cook for another 15 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Adjust consistency:
If you prefer a thicker consistency, remove the bay leaves and mash the soup slightly with hand mixture, or transfer about 1/4 to 1/2 of the soup to a blender. Blend until smooth, then stir it back into the pot. This will give the soup a creamy texture while keeping some of the chunks intact for added heartiness.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Adjust the spices as needed and season with salt and pepper to taste. Just before serving, add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness—it will take your soup to the next level.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the lentil soup with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for added flavor. Serve it warm with crispy garlic bread, a fresh salad, or a side of brown rice or quinoa for a complete, satisfying meal. You’ll find it as delicious as my Taco Soup and Creamy Caprese Parmesan Gnocchi Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Lentil soup is satisfying on its own, but here are a few ways to make it a meal:
- Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast.
- Salad: Pair with a simple green salad for added crunch.
- Grains: Spoon over cooked quinoa or brown rice to make it even more filling.
Storing, Freezing, and Reheating
- Storing: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Store in portioned containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened.
This lentil soup is low in calories but high in fiber, protein, and nutrients like iron and folate.
Lentil Soup Variations and Dietary Options
- Keto: Reduce the carrots and use more leafy greens.
- Gluten-Free: It is Naturally a gluten-free lentil soup recipe.
- Vegan Option : To make this recipe vegan, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Spicy: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick.
FAQs
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! To cook lentil soup in a slow cooker, set it to low and cook for 6–8 hours until the lentils are perfectly tender and the flavors are well-developed.
What is the difference between dal and lentil soup?
Dal and lentil soup share lentils as a main ingredient but differ in flavor and preparation. Dal is an Indian dish where lentils are cooked with traditional spices like turmeric, cumin, and coriander and often tempered with ghee and aromatics, giving it a unique, richer flavor profile.
Lentil soup is generally more Western and often has a milder, broth-based taste, with simpler seasoning.
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, using canned lentils cuts the cooking time in half.
How do I make the soup creamy?
Blend half the soup or add a splash of coconut milk.
Is lentil soup healthy?
Yes, lentil soup is very healthy. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron, folate, and potassium. Lentils are low in fat and high in complex carbohydrates, making the soup filling and nutritious, supporting heart health, digestion, and energy levels.
What is a lentil?
A lentil is a small, round legume that comes in various colors, including brown, green, red, and black. Lentils are highly nutritious, rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals, and are used in many dishes worldwide, especially in soups, stews, and dals.
Easy Lentil Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights
Description
This easy lentil soup recipe is your go-to for a cozy, nourishing meal made with pantry staples! Packed with protein, fiber, and fresh veggies, it’s a budget-friendly, one-pot wonder that’s ready in no time. Whether you're after a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal prep option, this lentil soup has you covered with bold flavors and simple steps. Perfectly seasoned and finished with a hint of lemon, it’s as comforting as it is nutritious.
Ingredients
Instructions
Lets Learn how to make lentil soup:
-
Saute garlic and onions:
Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion, cooking for about 2 minutes.
-
Cook Vegetables:
Then add the celery and carrot, cooking for another 7–10 minutes until softened, this step builds the flavor foundation of the soup, so take your time with it.
-
Add Remaining Ingredients:
Add the remaining ingredients (lentil, spices, diced tomatoes & tomato paste, chicken or vegetable broth) except for the spinach, lemon and salt, stirring to combine.
-
Simmer On Low Flame:
- Increase the heat to bring the soup to a simmer, skimming any foam from the surface as it forms.
- Cover with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.
-
Adjust the consistency:
- If you prefer a thicker consistency, remove the bay leaves and mash the soup slightly with hand mixture, or transfer about 1/4 to 1/2 of the soup to a blender.
- Blend until smooth, then stir it back into the pot. This will give the soup a creamy texture while keeping some of the chunks intact for added heartiness.
-
Adjust spices, Garnish & Serve:
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 311kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 5g8%
- Sodium 111mg5%
- Potassium 925mg27%
- Total Carbohydrate 48g16%
- Dietary Fiber 22g88%
- Sugars 5g
- Protein 18g36%
- Vitamin A 1930 IU
- Vitamin C 115 mg
- Calcium 73 mg
- Iron 6 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Lentils don’t need to be soaked, but a quick rinse helps remove debris and reduces cooking time.
- Add or substitute any other favorite veggies you have on hand, like zucchini,cabbage or bell peppers.
- Add more broth or water if the soup gets too thick as it cooks.
