Description
This Creamy Red Lentil Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender red lentils cooked with aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and a splash of lemon juice. Perfect for a healthy, filling meal, it’s easy to prepare and great for any season.
Ingredients
Scale
Soup Base
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Spices and Lentils
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed
Liquids and Vegetables
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Seasonings and Garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the Oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to prepare the base for the soup.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion and carrots to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
- Add Spices and Garlic: Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until the spices are aromatic.
- Add Lentils: Add the rinsed red lentils to the pot and stir well to coat them evenly with the spices.
- Add Liquids and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes along with their juices; stir to combine all ingredients.
- Season: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils are tender and the soup becomes creamy.
- Add Lemon and Greens: Stir in the lemon juice and fresh spinach or kale if using. Allow the greens to wilt for 2-3 minutes in the hot soup.
- Final Taste Adjustments: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with extra salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted based on your heat preference.
- Use fresh spinach or kale for added nutrition, or omit for a simpler soup.
- You can blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture if desired.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze for up to 3 months.
