Easy Lemony Lentil Soup Recipe

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Hey there, fellow food enthusiasts! If you’re on the hunt for a meal that’s not only good for your body but also soothing for the soul, you’re in for a treat. Today, we’re diving into the delightful world of “Lemony Lentil Soup.” This cozy and nourishing bowl of goodness is not just a soup; it’s a heartwarming hug in a bowl. Packed with protein, fiber, and a burst of zesty lemony flavor, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food. So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!

The Power of Lentils

Before we delve into the recipe, let’s talk about the star of the show: lentils. These tiny legumes may be small, but they’re mighty in nutrition. Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans. They’re also loaded with dietary fiber, which helps keep your digestion in check and keeps you feeling fuller for longer. Plus, lentils are rich in essential vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and potassium. With all these benefits, it’s no wonder lentils are a staple in many healthy diets.

Brown or Green Lentils for this Lemony Lentil Soup

First up, we’ve got green lentils. These bad boys are known for their sturdy texture and earthy flavor. They’re like the all-around athletes of the lentil world. Green lentils are packed with fiber, which is great for your digestive system. They’re also loaded with protein, making them a solid choice for all you veggie lovers out there who need their protein fix. Plus, they are chock-full of essential vitamins and minerals that your body loves – like iron, which helps keep your energy levels up.

Then we’ve got brown lentils, which are a bit softer and nuttier in taste compared to the greens. Brown lentils are also full of fiber and protein, making them great for keeping you feeling full and satisfied. They’re like a natural hunger buster! And just like the green ones, they’ve got a bunch of those vitamins and minerals your body cheers for.

Bread Recipe to Go With This Soup

Click here for the easiest bread recipe you’ll ever make.

Can you freeze this soup?

Absolutely! I recommend eating it within a few months though. I personally don’t like the texture of frozen carrots after too long.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step in creating a soul-soothing pot of lemony lentil soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed and drained
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 4 cups of spinach, chopped
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A handful of fresh spinach or kale, chopped
• Fresh dill for garnish
• Olive oil, for sautéing

1. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the veggies are tender and the onion is translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground turmeric. Let the spices mingle with the veggies for a minute or so, releasing their aromatic goodness.
3. Now, it’s lentil time! Add the rinsed lentils and give everything a good stir. This is where the magic starts to happen.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and toss in the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer away. Put a lid on the pot and let those flavors meld for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Time to add a burst of zesty freshness! Stir in the lemon zest and juice. The lemony goodness will elevate the flavors to a whole new level. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss in a handful of chopped spinach or kale. Let them wilt gently in the hot soup.
7. You’re almost there! Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle some fresh dill on top. The vibrant green adds a lovely touch.
8. Grab your favorite spoon and dive into the heartwarming embrace of your homemade lemony lentil soup.

Final Thoughts about this Lemony Lentil Soup

And there you have it, friends! A soul-nourishing, zesty Lemony Lentil Soup that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This recipe is proof that comfort food can be healthy and wholesome without sacrificing taste. So, the next time you’re in need of a cozy culinary hug, reach for your trusty pot and whip up a batch of this magical soup. Your taste buds and your soul will thank you!

Remember, cooking is all about having fun and experimenting, so feel free to tweak this recipe to suit your preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this Lemony Lentil Soup will always be your faithful companion in the kitchen. Happy cooking! Let me know what you think below.

Lemony Lentil Soup

This hearty and easy Lemony Lentil Soup is perfect for cozy nights next to a fire.

5 from 1 vote

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course Soup

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 4 People

Calories 250 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup dried lentils green or brown, rinsed and drained
• 1 onion finely chopped
• 3 carrots diced
• 3 celery stalks chopped
• 3 cloves of garlic minced
• 4 cups of spinach chopped
• 8 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A handful of fresh spinach or kale chopped
• Fresh dill for garnish
• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions

 

• Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the veggies are tender and the onion is translucent.
• Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, and ground turmeric. Let the spices mingle with the veggies for a minute or so, releasing their aromatic goodness.
• Now, it’s lentil time! Add the rinsed lentils and give everything a good stir. This is where the magic starts to happen.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and toss in the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer away. Put a lid on the pot and let those flavors meld for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
• Time to add a burst of zesty freshness! Stir in the lemon zest and juice. The lemony goodness will elevate the flavors to a whole new level. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Toss in a handful of chopped spinach or kale. Let them wilt gently in the hot soup.
• You’re almost there! Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle some fresh dill on top. The vibrant green adds a lovely touch.
• Grab your favorite spoon and dive into the heartwarming embrace of your homemade lemony lentil soup.