Description
A hearty and flavorful lentil soup packed with vegetables and warming spices, perfect for a nutritious and comforting meal made in one pot.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 14-ounce can crushed or diced tomatoes
- 2 cups dry green or brown lentils
- 7 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 3 cups baby spinach, sliced into ribbons (or kale)
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Heat the Base: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, peeled and chopped carrots, and chopped celery. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add Lentils and Spices: Pour in the crushed or diced tomatoes with their juices, dry lentils, vegetable broth, ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika. Stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 30 minutes. Cook until the lentils are tender and the soup thickens.
- Blend for Creaminess (Optional): For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to pulse some of the soup directly in the pot. Alternatively, transfer 1-2 cups of soup to a blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot.
- Add Spinach and Lemon Juice: Stir in the baby spinach ribbons and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Allow the spinach to wilt for about 1 minute, then season with salt to taste.
Notes
- This lentil soup is made entirely in one pot, making cleanup easy and quick.
- Adjust seasoning as needed, especially salt, depending on the broth used.
- Use kale as a substitute for spinach for a sturdier green.
- Blending part of the soup creates a creamier texture without adding cream.
- Lentils provide a good source of protein and fiber, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 236 kcal
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 610 mg
- Fat: 4 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 16 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
