There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of lentil soup with carrots and celery. Picture this: a rich, earthy broth brimming with tender lentils, vibrant orange carrots, and crisp celery, all mingling together in perfect harmony. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl that warms both the body and soul.
Now, let me take you back to a chilly evening when I first made this delightful dish. My friends were coming over for dinner, and I wanted to impress them with my culinary skills. As the soup bubbled away on the stove, I could hardly contain my excitement. The laughter and chatter filled the air as we eagerly awaited our delicious feast, turning what could have been an ordinary night into an unforgettable memory filled with warmth and joy.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This lentil soup with carrots and celery is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The robust flavors will delight your taste buds while providing a healthy option for dinner
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing, ensuring it stands out on your dining table
- Enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it alongside crusty bread for extra satisfaction
Everyone raved about how delicious it was, proving that comfort food can also be impressive.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green or Brown Lentils: These types hold their shape well during cooking and add a hearty texture to the soup.
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Carrots: Use fresh carrots for sweetness; they add color and flavor that brightens up the dish.
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Celery: Crisp celery provides a lovely crunch and aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the soup.
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Onion: A chopped onion adds depth; sauté until translucent to release its natural sweetness.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the soup with fragrant notes; don’t skimp on this ingredient for maximum flavor.
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Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control salt levels; it creates a flavorful base for your soup.
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Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables beautifully.
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Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors; adjust according to your taste preference.
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Dried Thyme or Bay Leaf: Adding herbs brings another layer of flavor; thyme works wonders in this recipe.
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Lemon Juice (optional): A splash of lemon juice at serving time brightens up the flavors wonderfully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and add chopped onions. Sauté until they turn translucent and release their sweet aroma, about 5 minutes.
Add Vegetables & Garlic: Toss in diced carrots and celery along with minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until they soften slightly; enjoy those amazing scents filling your kitchen.
Combine Lentils & Broth: Add rinsed lentils to the pot along with vegetable broth. Stir everything together well while bringing it up to a gentle boil.
Season & Simmer: Sprinkle in salt, pepper, thyme or bay leaf. Reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until the lentils are tender but not mushy—this is crucial!
Final Touches & Serve Up! : Taste and adjust seasoning if needed; consider adding lemon juice here for brightness! Ladle into bowls and serve hot—perfect alongside crusty bread or on its own.
This lentil soup with carrots and celery is not just a meal but an experience that fills you with warmth from both inside out. Enjoy each flavorful spoonful!
You Must Know
- Lentil soup with carrots and celery is a hearty dish that warms the soul
- The combination of spices creates an aromatic experience, making your kitchen smell divine
- Plus, it’s healthy, filling, and perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic to build flavor, then add carrots and celery before the lentils. This sequence ensures maximum taste infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different vegetables like bell peppers or kale. You can also experiment with spices such as cumin or paprika for added flair.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until hot, adding water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro as a finishing touch to brighten the flavor
- Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any debris
- Avoid overcooking; lentils should be tender yet firm for a perfect texture
Cooking this lentil soup reminds me of a chilly evening when my friends gathered around, sharing laughter and seconds—lots of seconds! Their compliments warmed my heart as much as the soup warmed our bellies.
FAQ
Can I freeze lentil soup with carrots and celery?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months in an airtight container.
What can I serve with this soup?
Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How do I make this recipe vegan-friendly?
This recipe is already vegan; just ensure your broth is plant-based!
Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Lentil soup with carrots and celery is a warm, hearty dish that brings comfort to any chilly evening. Packed with nutritious ingredients and robust flavors, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. Each bowl offers a delightful combination of tender lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic herbs, making it a favorite for both health-conscious eaters and comfort food lovers alike. Serve it solo or alongside crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 bay leaf)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, drizzle olive oil and sauté chopped onions until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add diced carrots, celery, and minced garlic; cook for another 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in rinsed lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a gentle boil.
- Season with salt, pepper, and thyme/bay leaf. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy.
- Adjust seasoning if needed; add lemon juice before serving. Ladle into bowls and enjoy hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
