Advertisement
If you’re looking for a comforting yet zesty soup to warm your soul, this Lemon Lentil Soup is the perfect choice. Combining the earthiness of lentils with the brightness of lemon, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether you’re serving it as a light lunch or a hearty dinner, this soup is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced (optional)
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 large lemon, juiced
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their flavors.
Advertisement
2. Incorporate the Spices and Lentils
Next, sprinkle in the ground cumin, turmeric, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the spices. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, mixing them thoroughly with the seasoned vegetables.
Advertisement
3. Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
4. Finish with Lemon and Greens
Once the lentils are tender, stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. If you’re adding spinach or kale, mix it in now and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the greens are wilted and vibrant.
5. Garnish and Serve
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve warm, savoring the bright, tangy flavors that make this Lemon Lentil Soup a standout dish.
Quick Tips:
- For added richness: Consider stirring in a tablespoon of coconut milk before serving.
- For a heartier meal: Serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side of rice.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Calories: Approximately 220 per serving
Servings: 4
Enjoy this delightful, zesty soup as a healthy, satisfying meal any time of the year!