Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup: A Nutritious Recipe

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Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup: A Nutritious Recipe

When the weather turns cooler, nothing satisfies quite like a bowl of warm, comforting soup. This vegetable and lentil soup recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a healthy and fulfilling meal. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch, this soup is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.

Why You'll Love This Soup

  • Nutritious: Lentils are an excellent source of protein and fiber, while vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Versatile: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer.
  • Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this soup comes together in no time.
  • Budget-Friendly: Lentils and vegetables are affordable, making this a cost-effective meal option.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
  • Optional: Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Lentils and Spices: Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  4. Add Greens (Optional): If using kale or spinach, stir it into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted.
  5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with a lemon wedge if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

  • Lentil Type: Brown or green lentils work best in this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking. Red lentils tend to break down and can make the soup mushy.
  • Vegetable Broth: Using high-quality vegetable broth enhances the overall flavor of the soup. If you don't have vegetable broth, you can use water with a vegetable bouillon cube.
  • Customization: Get creative with your vegetables! Add diced potatoes, zucchini, bell peppers, or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
  • Storage: This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for longer storage.

Health Benefits of Lentil Soup

Lentil soup is not only delicious but also incredibly good for you:

  • High in Fiber: Promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
  • Rich in Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.
  • Good Source of Iron: Helps prevent iron deficiency and supports energy levels.
  • Low in Fat: A heart-healthy option that can help lower cholesterol levels.

Make It Your Own

This vegetable and lentil soup is a fantastic base recipe that you can easily adapt to your liking. Whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting out, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the warmth and nourishment this soup provides!

Try it tonight and share your creations with us!