Warm, hearty, and brimming with Italian-inspired flavors, this Italian Lentil and Barley Soup is the ultimate comfort dish for any season. Packed with wholesome ingredients like nutrient-rich lentils, nutty pearl barley, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, this soup is as nutritious as it is satisfying. Simmered in a flavorful vegetable broth infused with garlic, oregano, thyme, and a hint of diced tomatoes, every spoonful is a celebration of rustic, homestyle goodness. Ready in just over an hour, this one-pot wonder is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Serve it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dusting of Parmesan for a simple yet elegant finish. With its high fiber content, plant-based protein, and robust flavor, this soup is a wholesome delight you'll want to make again and again.
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the lentils, barley, diced tomatoes (with their juices), vegetable broth, bay leaf, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, stirring occasionally.
Simmer for 40-50 minutes, or until the lentils and barley are tender.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Calories |
1733 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 72.1 g | 92% | |
| Saturated Fat | 21.1 g | 106% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 10.6 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 56 mg | 19% | |
| Sodium | 7451 mg | 324% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 207.4 g | 75% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 54.9 g | 196% | |
| Total Sugars | 52.2 g | ||
| Protein | 76.4 g | 153% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.6 mcg | 3% | |
| Calcium | 1221 mg | 94% | |
| Iron | 19.6 mg | 109% | |
| Potassium | 5484 mg | 117% | |
*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.