Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Jul 28, 2024August 10, 20240 1
Cook with Us: Easy, Fresh and Colorful Meals
in Healthy Lunch, Healthy

Prep

15 min

Cook

40 min

Ready In

60 min

Level

Easy

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 zucchini, diced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
6 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Recipe details

Servings Per Recipe
06
Calories
180
Total Fat
3g
Saturated Fat
0.5g
Cholesterol
0mg
Sodium
600mg
Carbohydrates
30g
Dietary Fiber
10g
Protein
10g

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2.Add the carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3.Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, lentils, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4.Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
5.Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add lemon juice if desired.
6.Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a hearty and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any season. This soup combines the earthy flavor of lentils with a variety of fresh vegetables, making it both tasty and healthy.

Rich in Flavor and Texture

Firstly, Lentil and Vegetable Soup offers a rich blend of flavors and textures. The lentils provide a hearty base, while the mix of vegetables adds freshness and color. Onions and garlic create a savory foundation. Carrots, celery, and bell peppers contribute sweetness and crunch. Tomatoes add acidity and depth. Fresh spinach brings a pop of green and a tender bite. Together, these ingredients create a balanced and flavorful soup that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Packed with Nutrients

This soup is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy choice. Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. They help keep you full and support digestive health. The vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin A from carrots, vitamin C from bell peppers, and iron from spinach. The use of vegetable broth keeps the soup light yet flavorful. Olive oil provides healthy fats that aid in nutrient absorption.

Easy to Make

Lentil and Vegetable Soup is also incredibly easy to make. With simple steps and readily available ingredients, you can have a delicious pot of soup ready in under an hour. The recipe requires minimal prep work. Chopping the vegetables and rinsing the lentils are the most time-consuming tasks. Once everything is in the pot, you simply let it simmer until the lentils and vegetables are tender. This makes it a perfect recipe for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Versatile and Customizable

This soup is highly versatile and customizable. You can adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Add potatoes for extra heartiness. Include green beans for additional crunch. Substitute kale for spinach for a different green. You can also adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Include fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Lentil and Vegetable Soup is perfect for any occasion. It’s a great option for a light lunch or a filling dinner. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal. It’s also ideal for meal prep. Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. The soup reheats well and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Lastly, Lentil and Vegetable Soup is a delicious and healthy option for any meal. Its rich flavor, nutrient-packed ingredients, and ease of preparation make it a standout dish. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal on a cold day or a light yet satisfying option in warmer weather, this soup is sure to hit the spot. So, give this Lentil and Vegetable Soup recipe a try and enjoy a tasty and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any time of year.

Have a look at our other delicious Recipes.

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