Description

Looking for a quick, healthy, and comforting meal? This Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup is just what you need. Packed with hearty lentils, nutritious vegetables, and flavorful herbs and spices, this easy dinner option is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, a healthy snack, or reliable dinner ideas, this one-pot wonder checks every box. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. A must-try for anyone who loves wholesome food ideas and easy recipes that taste amazing.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 yellow onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, diced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 cup diced tomatoes

1 cup dry green or brown lentils

6 cups vegetable broth

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

2 cups chopped kale or spinach

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened.

2. Add garlic and tomato paste. Sauté for 1–2 more minutes until fragrant.

3. Stir in diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes.

4. Add lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes.

5. Stir in chopped kale or spinach and cook for 5 more minutes uncovered.

6. Remove the bay leaf and stir in fresh lemon juice. Adjust seasoning as needed.

7. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or bread.

Notes

Use fresh lemon juice at the end—it makes the soup brighter and more flavorful.

Letting the soup rest for a few minutes after cooking improves the texture and flavor.

You can mash a portion of the soup or blend it briefly for a thicker, creamier consistency.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Global

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 260
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 13g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: easy dinner, healthy soup, lentil soup, vegan recipe, quick meal