Save A hearty, nourishing soup packed with lentils, fresh herbs, and vegetables perfect for cozy, budget-friendly meals.
This classic lentil and herb soup quickly became a favorite in our household and is simple enough for weeknights.
Ingredients
- Vegetables: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 large onion finely chopped, 2 carrots peeled and diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1 (400 g) can diced tomatoes or 2 medium tomatoes chopped
- Legumes: 2 cups (400 g) dried brown or green lentils rinsed
- Liquids: 8 cups (2 liters) vegetable broth, 1 bay leaf
- Herbs & Spices: 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp dried thyme, ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp black pepper, 1 tsp salt or to taste, ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped, 2 tbsp fresh dill or cilantro chopped (optional), Juice of ½ lemon
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery sauté for 6–8 minutes until softened.
- Step 2:
- Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 3:
- Add diced tomatoes, lentils, cumin, thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and bay leaf. Stir well.
- Step 4:
- Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 35–40 minutes stirring occasionally until lentils are tender.
- Step 5:
- Remove bay leaf. Stir in parsley, dill or cilantro (if using), and lemon juice. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Step 6:
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
Save This soup always brings the family together especially on chilly evenings when we gather around the table.
Required Tools
Large soup pot, wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board, ladle
Allergen Information
Contains no common allergens If using store-bought broth check for gluten or other allergens in the ingredients.
Nutritional Information
Calories 260, Total Fat 4 g, Carbohydrates 42 g, Protein 15 g per serving
Save This lentil and herb soup makes a wholesome meal on its own or a hearty side dish for any gathering.
Recipe Help
- → What type of lentils work best?
Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold shape well and provide a hearty texture.
- → Can I make the soup creamier?
Yes, blending half the soup before mixing it back in adds a smooth and creamy consistency.
- → Which herbs enhance the flavor?
Fresh parsley and dill or cilantro added at the end brighten and complement the earthiness of lentils.
- → Is it possible to add extra vegetables?
Absolutely, diced potatoes or spinach can be added for additional nutrition and texture.
- → How long should I simmer the soup?
Simmer gently for about 35-40 minutes until the lentils are tender but not falling apart.