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.
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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
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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.
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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.
