Description
Craving something warm, nourishing, and simple to whip up? This Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup is your perfect go-to! It’s packed with hearty red lentils, fresh vegetables, and rich, earthy spices all simmered together in one cozy pot. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick dinner idea or looking to meal-prep a healthy snack or light lunch, this easy recipe delivers bold flavor and feel-good satisfaction. Naturally gluten-free and vegan, it’s a nutritious option that fits into many diets, and it only gets better with time. Ideal for busy weekdays, chilly nights, or when you just want a comforting bowl of goodness.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup chopped carrots
1 cup chopped celery
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup red lentils
5 cups vegetable broth
2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until veggies begin to soften.
2. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen flavor.
3. Add cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until veggies are well-coated.
4. Pour in vegetable broth and add red lentils. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, until lentils are tender and soup thickens.
6. Stir in spinach or kale. Let cook for 2-3 minutes until greens are wilted.
7. Adjust seasoning if needed, serve hot, and enjoy!
Notes
Use red lentils for the creamiest texture.
This soup gets better the next day—perfect for meal prep!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 11g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: healthy lentil soup, easy dinner, vegan soup, cozy soup recipe, quick weeknight dinner