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The Ultimate Easy & Hearty Lentil Soup Recipe

Close-up of a hearty bowl of lentil soup filled with brown lentils, diced carrots, and celery.

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Make this classic, comforting lentil soup that is both nutritious and budget friendly. This recipe delivers a satisfying meal perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prep staple, ready quickly.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic, thyme, cumin, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and bay leaf.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  6. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Stir in the salt and fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve hot. This is a great healthy dinner idea.

Notes

  • For a thicker soup, mash about 1 cup of the cooked lentils against the side of the pot with a spoon before serving.
  • This recipe freezes well for future meal prep. Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
  • If you prefer an Italian lentil soup flavor, add 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil with the other spices.

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