Description
Experience the warmth and comfort of Classic Lentil Soup, a delightful vegan dish that combines hearty lentils with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices. This nutritious, gluten-free soup is perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a filling bowl of goodness any day of the week. The rich flavors from the sautéed mirepoix and spices create a satisfying experience, whether enjoyed on its own or with crusty bread for dipping. Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also a healthy choice packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion (diced)
- 3 carrots (sliced)
- 2 stalks celery (sliced)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 cups dry green lentils (sorted and rinsed)
- 1 can crushed tomatoes (14.5 ounce)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 3–4 cups water
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté diced onion for 2–3 minutes until translucent.
- Add sliced carrots and celery; continue to sauté for another minute.
- Stir in tomato paste and sauté for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Mix in minced garlic, Italian seasoning, paprika, cumin, bay leaves, and black pepper; sauté for 1 minute.
- Add rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and 3 cups water; stir well.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium and simmer for 20–30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Remove bay leaves and stir in fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg