There’s just something so comforting about a warm bowl of Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup, isn’t there? It’s like a hug in a bowl! Packed with protein-rich lentils and a rainbow of vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. It’s a fantastic way to sneak more veggies into your diet while enjoying a satisfying meal that will keep you full. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this soup checks all the boxes for health and flavor. Trust me, each spoonful is a celebration of wholesome ingredients, perfect for nourishing your body and soul!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step to making this Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup! You’ll need:
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained – these little gems are packed with protein and fiber!
- 1 onion, chopped – for that classic base flavor that brings everything together.
- 2 carrots, diced – they add a lovely sweetness and a pop of color.
- 2 celery stalks, diced – for crunch and depth in the broth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – they add acidity and richness to the soup.
- 6 cups vegetable broth – the soul of the soup; go for low-sodium for a healthier option!
- 1 teaspoon thyme – a wonderful herb that complements the vegetables beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon cumin – it brings a warm, earthy flavor that’s just perfect.
- Salt and pepper to taste – essential for seasoning!
- 2 cups spinach, chopped – for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Make sure everything is prepped before you start cooking—trust me, it makes the process so much smoother!
How to Prepare Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup
Ready to whip up a delicious pot of Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup? It’s super simple, and I promise, you’ll be savoring every spoonful before you know it! Here’s how to do it:
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, grab a large pot and heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle, but not so hot that it smokes!
- Once the oil is shimmering, toss in your chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and the onion turns translucent. This base is where all the flavor starts!
- Next, add the minced garlic and let it cook for just a minute. Be careful not to burn it—garlic can turn bitter fast!
- Now, it’s time to stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and cumin. Give everything a good stir to combine.
- Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. The lentils should be tender but not mushy!
- Finally, fold in your chopped spinach and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes. This step is like adding the finishing touch to your masterpiece!
- Season your soup with salt and pepper to taste before ladling it into bowls. Enjoy your hearty creation!
Trust me, the aroma that fills your kitchen will have everyone asking, “What’s cooking?” Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber from lentils and veggies, it’s a health powerhouse.
- Filling: This soup is hearty enough to satisfy your hunger without weighing you down.
- Easy to make: With just one pot and simple steps, you’ll have a delicious meal with minimal effort!
- Versatile: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or spices—make it your own!
- Perfect for meal prep: It stores well, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
Tips for Success
Here are some of my top tips to make sure your Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup turns out perfectly every time!
- Rinse your lentils: Always rinse them under cold water to remove any dust or debris. This helps maintain a clean flavor in your soup.
- Mix up the veggies: Don’t hesitate to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. They add color and flavor!
- Adjust the spices: If you love a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can really elevate the flavor profile!
- Don’t skip the resting: Letting the soup sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Batch it up: Make a double batch and freeze half for those busy days when you need a quick meal!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to a delicious, comforting bowl of soup every time! Enjoy the process!
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup is not just comforting but also packed with nutrients! Here’s what you can expect per cup:
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 2g
- Protein: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients used, but they give you a great idea of how wholesome this soup really is! Enjoy nourishing your body with each delicious spoonful!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Got leftovers? Lucky you! This Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup stores beautifully. Just transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator, where it’ll keep well for up to 5 days. If you want to save some for later, it freezes like a champ for up to 3 months! Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, you can gently warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a hurry—just heat in short intervals, stirring in between. Enjoy your comforting bowl again!
FAQ Section
Got questions about my Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup? I’ve got answers! Here are some of the most common queries I get:
Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?
Absolutely! Dried lentils are perfect for this soup. Just remember to rinse them and adjust the cooking time, as they generally take longer to soften.
What vegetables can I add?
You can really get creative here! Try adding diced zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! This soup is a fantastic meal prep option. You can make it a day or two ahead, and the flavors will only get better as it sits!
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, my Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup is naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for everyone to enjoy!
Can I add meat to this soup?
Of course! If you want to add a protein boost, cooked chicken or sausage can be tossed in. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to balance the flavors!
I hope this helps clarify some of your questions about my beloved Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup! Enjoy making it your own!
For more healthy recipes, check out this healthy cheesecake recipe or this sweet potato and lentil soup for a delicious twist!
Print
Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup: 7 Comforting Benefits
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A nutritious and filling soup made with lentils and a variety of vegetables.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.
- Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and cumin.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup, vegetable soup, lentil soup, healthy soup