Looking for a delicious, nutritious meal that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen? Look no further than The Absolute Best Lentil Soup! This hearty and creamy soup is bursting with flavor and ideal for a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something warm and comforting. Packed with red lentils, fresh vegetables, and warming spices, this lentil soup proves that simple ingredients can create an extraordinary dish.

The winning combination of spices, such as curry powder and cumin, will tantalize your taste buds while the tender lentils and vibrant spinach ensure each bowl is nourishing and satisfying. Best of all, you’ll whip up this comforting meal in one pot, making for an easy cleanup. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is not only packed with protein and fiber but can also easily be adapted to meet your dietary needs. Enjoy this lentil soup alone or accompanied by crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Lentil Soup

Flavorful: The blend of spices and fresh veggies makes every spoonful a delightful experience.
Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, it’s a healthy choice for any diet.
One-Pot Wonder: Hassle-free cooking means easier cleanup!
Versatile: Customize with your favorite ingredients or adapt for varying dietary preferences.
Quick and Easy: Made in under 30 minutes; perfect for busy weeknights!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking your delicious lentil soup, it’s essential to set up your kitchen and gather your ingredients in advance. Start by ensuring you have all the necessary tools for a smooth cooking process. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven to sauté your vegetables and cook the soup, a cutting board, and a knife to prepare your onions, carrots, and garlic. It’s also a good idea to have a measuring cup and measuring spoons nearby to ensure accurate ingredient quantities.

To prep the ingredients, rinse the red lentils thoroughly in a strainer under cool water until the water runs clear. While the lentils drain, you can dice the medium yellow onion and peeled carrots, then mince the garlic. Having these ingredients ready will streamline your cooking process and make it easier to follow along with the recipe.

Ingredients

2 cups dried red lentils (about 1 lb)
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 tablespoon curry powder
1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
1 teaspoon ground cumin
6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
5 cups baby spinach (about 5 oz)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Veggies & Lentils

Begin by rinsing the dried red lentils in a strainer under cool running water until the water runs clear. This step is crucial to remove any impurities and ensure a clean flavor. While the lentils are draining, get your vegetables ready. Dice the medium yellow onion and the two carrots into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. Finally, mince the four cloves of garlic. Having these ingredients prepped will help speed up the cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the three tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced carrots and onion. Sauté these vegetables for about five minutes or until they become soft and translucent. This initial step builds a flavor foundation that will enhance the overall taste of the soup. Afterward, stir in the minced garlic, curry powder, ground cumin, dried thyme, and kosher salt. Allow this mixture to cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the rinsed lentils, the can of tomato sauce, and the six cups of low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth to the pot. Stir all the ingredients until well combined, and increase the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. Once the soup reaches a simmer, cover the pot and allow it to cook for 18–22 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the lentils from sticking to the bottom. You’ll know the soup is ready when the lentils are tender and cooked through, producing a deliciously thickened soup.

Step 4: Add the Greens

Remove the pot from the heat, and stir in the baby spinach. The heat from the soup will quickly wilt the spinach, adding a beautiful pop of color and a nutritious boost to the dish. Once the spinach has wilted—the soup is now ready to serve. Ladle generous portions into bowls, and enjoy your comforting lentil soup hot.

Variations

Protein: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu for a protein boost!
Vegetables: Toss in diced zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes for extra fiber and nutrients.
Spices: Experiment with smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or a dollop of sriracha for added heat.

Cooking Notes

For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender.
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth to about 4 cups.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy the lentil soup alongside crusty, toasted bread for dipping.
Top each bowl with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a flavor boost.

Tips

Make this soup ahead of time and store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days.
You can freeze the soup for later use; just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 250
Protein: 14g
Sodium: 500mg

FAQs

Can I use green lentils instead of red?

Yes, but note that green lentils take longer to cook and may have a different texture.

How can I thicken the soup?

To thicken the soup, reduce the amount of broth or blend some of the soup with an immersion blender.

Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is entirely plant-based if using vegetable broth!

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy or have on hand.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Absolute Best Lentil Soup is not only a delicious and comforting dish but also a simple one that fits perfectly into busy lives. With ingredients like red lentils, fresh vegetables, and plenty of spices, it proves just how satisfying home-cooked meals can be. Whether enjoyed alone or paired with a slice of crusty bread, this lentil soup promises to warm your heart and fill your belly. Don’t forget to share your thoughts, experiences, and variations in the comments below! Happy cooking!