Easiest Lentil Soup of All Time
Cozy up with the "Easiest Lentil Soup of All Time," a one-pot wonder that's heartwarming, healthy, and packed with flavor. This quick and easy recipe combines tender lentils with aromatic spices like cumin, paprika, and thyme, simmered to perfection alongside hearty vegetables and tangy diced tomatoes. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a satisfying plant-based dinner that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The addition of fresh baby spinach and a splash of lemon juice takes this soup to the next level, offering a nutritious boost and a burst of brightness. Serve it with crusty bread for a wholesome, comforting meal the whole family will love. Whether you're new to lentil soup or a seasoned pro, this recipe will become your go-to for a quick and flavorful bowl of goodness.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup dried lentils (brown or green), rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 15-ounce can diced tomatoes (canned, with juices)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 whole bay leaf
- 2 cups baby spinach (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with juices), cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
If using, stir in the baby spinach during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking until wilted.
Remove the bay leaf and discard. Stir in the lemon juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side of your choice.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
325 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 10.5 g | 13% | |
| Saturated Fat | 2.0 g | 10% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 1.3 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 1583 mg | 69% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 47.7 g | 17% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 12.4 g | 44% | |
| Total Sugars | 13.7 g | ||
| Protein | 14.4 g | 29% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 150 mg | 12% | |
| Iron | 5.2 mg | 29% | |
| Potassium | 1446 mg | 31% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
