Lentil Vegetable Soup has transformed my cold days into warm, comforting experiences. This rustic, hearty lentil vegetable soup is made from easy-to-find ingredients and packed with an abundance of nutrients. It’s a delightful dish that not only fills your belly but also nourishes your body. Whether you’re looking for a filling dinner or meal prep ideas, this vegan lentil soup recipe is the ultimate solution. Let’s dive into the joys of making this easy lentil soup with vegetables!

Why You’ll Love This Lentil Vegetable Soup

This hearty lentil vegetable soup is a winner for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly healthy, being loaded with fiber and protein, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet. Second, it is versatile; you can customize it with your favorite vegetables or spices. Third, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup. Additionally, it’s gluten-free and can easily be made in a slow cooker, making it suitable for everyone. Lastly, it’s low in calories, so you can enjoy a big bowl without guilt, making it a great option for meal prep!

Ingredients for Lentil Vegetable Soup

Gather these items:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 carrots chopped
1 onion chopped
1 stalk celery chopped
1 teaspoon cumin ground
4 cloves garlic pressed or grated
6 cups vegetable broth
2 cans (15-ounce each) diced tomatoes
1 cup dried lentils green or brown, uncooked, rinsed with water
1 teaspoon thyme dried
1 teaspoon oregano dried
¾ teaspoon salt or more to taste
⅛ teaspoon black pepper or red pepper flakes
5 ounces spinach

How to Make Lentil Vegetable Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots, onion, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
Step 2: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and stir to coat the vegetables, letting it toast for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the pressed garlic and cook for another minute.
Step 3: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice), then add the rinsed lentils, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
Step 4: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover partially with a lid and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape.
Step 5: Check the soup occasionally and stir to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom. Add a splash more broth if the soup becomes too thick.
Step 6: Once the lentils are tender, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 7: Add the spinach and stir until it wilts into the hot soup, which should take just 1-2 minutes.
Step 8: Serve the soup hot in bowls, with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Hearty Lentil Vegetable Soup: A Comforting Delight - Lentil Vegetable Soup - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Lentil Vegetable Soup

Keep these in mind:

This soup tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld together.
For a spicy lentil vegetable soup recipe, add more red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Lentil Vegetable Soup

Here are some ideas to enjoy your soup:

Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Pair it with a side of rice or quinoa for extra heartiness.
Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added flavor.

How to Store and Reheat Lentil Vegetable Soup

To store your soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply warm it on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it thickens too much.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lentil Vegetable Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Lentil Vegetable Soup?

The secret lies in sautéing your vegetables to enhance their flavors before adding the broth and lentils. This step is crucial for a rich and hearty taste.

Can I make Lentil Vegetable Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. It keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better after a day as the flavors meld together.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Lentil Vegetable Soup?

Make sure not to overcook the lentils; they should be tender but still hold their shape. Also, adjust seasoning at the end for the best flavor.

Variations of Lentil Vegetable Soup You Can Try

Here are a few variations to keep things interesting:

Add different vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini to enhance your vegetable lentil stew.
For a comforting twist, use coconut milk for a creamy lentil vegetable broth.
Experiment with spices like curry powder for a unique flavor profile.

For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Cauliflower Soup or Slow Cooker Mongolian Beef. If you’re interested in meal prep, you might also enjoy Whole30 Chicken Taco Soup for a healthy option.

For additional nutritional information on lentils, you can visit Healthline.