There’s something magically cozy about a bowl of Warming Lentil Soup with Veggies. Imagine the rich aroma of simmering spices wafting through your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Each spoonful bursts with flavor, offering a delightful medley of textures that warms not just your body but also your soul.
This soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. Picture yourself on a chilly evening, wrapped in a blanket, savoring every drop while reminiscing about your favorite moments with loved ones. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night alone, this soup brings warmth and joy to any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Warming Lentil Soup with Veggies is easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The flavors meld beautifully, creating a comforting and hearty dish
- Its vibrant colors make each bowl visually appealing and invite seconds
- This recipe is versatile; swap veggies based on what you have for endless variations!
I remember the first time I prepared this soup for my family; their delighted faces were priceless as they took their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green or Brown Lentils: Choose firm lentils; they hold their shape well during cooking and add protein.
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Carrots: Fresh, sweet carrots bring vibrant color and natural sweetness to the soup.
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Celery: Crisp celery adds a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor that enhances the overall taste.
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Onion: Use yellow or white onions for their balanced sweetness; they’ll caramelize beautifully in the pot.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves will elevate the flavor profile; don’t be shy—add extra if you love garlic!
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Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes provide acidity and depth; opt for fire-roasted for added smokiness.
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Vegetable Broth: A quality broth enhances flavor; homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine.
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Savory Herbs (Thyme and Bay Leaf): Fresh thyme adds aromatic notes while bay leaves infuse warm undertones as it simmers.
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Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds richness; use it generously to sauté your veggies to perfection.
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Salt and Pepper: Season generously throughout cooking to elevate all those beautiful flavors!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Start by prepping your veggies: Chop the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic into even pieces. This ensures even cooking and helps release those amazing aromas.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Add Veggies & Spices: Stir in carrots and celery along with minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until everything softens slightly—your kitchen should smell incredible right about now!
Add Lentils & Tomatoes: Toss in rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes along with their juice. Stir everything together until well combined—you’re almost there!
Pour in Broth & Seasonings: Add vegetable broth along with thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring this glorious mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes.
Final Touches & Serve!: Check lentils for tenderness; they should be cooked through but not mushy. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving hot—don’t forget that crusty bread on the side!
With each step of making Warming Lentil Soup with Veggies, you’ll feel more connected not only to the food but also to the cherished memories shared around it. Enjoy!
You Must Know
- This warming lentil soup with veggies is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl
- The rich aromas fill your kitchen, and the vibrant colors will brighten any dreary day
- Plus, it’s eco-friendly and easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weekdays
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then add vegetables and lentils before stirring in broth for balanced flavors.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap lentils for chickpeas or add your favorite spices like cumin or coriander for extra depth.
Storing & Reheating
Store this warming lentil soup with veggies in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using fresh herbs can elevate your warming lentil soup with veggies from ordinary to extraordinary
- Always rinse your lentils before cooking to remove impurities
- For creaminess, blend a portion of the soup before serving
The first time I made this warming lentil soup with veggies, my friend declared it “life-changing,” which was pretty high praise considering her usual diet consists of cereal and takeout!
FAQ
What type of lentils should I use for this soup?
For this warming lentil soup with veggies, brown or green lentils work best due to their texture.
Can I freeze leftover soup?
Yes, this warming lentil soup with veggies freezes well for up to three months if stored properly.
How long does it take to cook lentils in the soup?
Lentils typically take around 25-30 minutes to become tender in the warming lentil soup with veggies.
Warming Lentil Soup with Veggies
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Warming Lentil Soup with Veggies is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings. This nourishing soup combines hearty lentils and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, simmered in fragrant spices to create a dish that warms both body and soul. Each bowl offers not only delightful flavors but also a fulfilling experience that invites you to savor every moment. Easy to prepare, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings with loved ones.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by chopping the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic into even pieces for even cooking.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in carrots and celery along with minced garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
- Add rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes (with juice), stirring well.
- Pour in vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 30-40 minutes.
- Check lentils for tenderness before serving hot. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
