Hearty Lentil Soup
This hearty lentil soup is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with fresh vegetables, tender lentils, and aromatic herbs, it’s a healthy, filling meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Ingredients
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 stalks celery chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 cups dried lentils
- 8 cups water
- 1 14.5-ounce can crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup spinach rinsed and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons red vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cook and stir for 3 to 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes tender and translucent.
Add Aromatics and Herbs
- Stir in the minced garlic, bay leaf, dried oregano, and basil. Let them cook for about 2 minutes to release their fragrant aromas. This step builds the flavorful base of the soup.
Add Lentils and Liquids
- Stir in the dried lentils, then add the water and crushed tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for about 40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Add the Spinach
- When the lentils are fully cooked, stir in the thinly sliced spinach. Allow it to cook for 2 to 3 minutes, just until it wilts into the soup.
Finish and Season
- Stir in the red vinegar, then season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a quick taste test and adjust the seasonings if needed.
Serve and Enjoy
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Pair it with crusty bread for an extra cozy touch!
Notes
How to Serve Hearty Lentil Soup
This hearty lentil soup is perfect on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with simple sides.
Serve it with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a little extra indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top or drizzle with a touch of olive oil before serving.
This soup is ideal for fall and winter evenings when you’re craving something warm and nourishing. It also makes a great starter for holiday dinners or casual gatherings.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
Have leftovers? No problem! This soup stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Refrigeration: Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions in freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Top Tips for Customizing Your Hearty Lentil Soup
Switch up the vegetables: Feel free to add or swap vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers are great additions.
Try different lentils: While this recipe uses dried brown or green lentils, you can also use red lentils for a creamier texture. Just note that red lentils cook faster.
Add a protein boost: For extra heartiness, toss in some cooked sausage, diced chicken, or a handful of chickpeas.
Spice it up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.