Go Back

Lentil Soup Recipe

This lentil soup is a hearty, nourishing dish made with vegetables, lentils, and warm spices. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and perfect for cozy meals or meal prep.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 5
Course: Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 264
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion chopped
  • 4 medium carrots chopped
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 6 small or 3 large kale leaves stems diced and leaves chopped
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic grated
  • 14 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
  • 3/4 cup dry green lentils rinsed
  • 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
  • 12 fresh thyme sprigs bundled
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Red pepper flakes optional
  • Grated Parmesan cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Ladle
  • Stove

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and diced kale stems. Sprinkle in the cumin, salt, and a few grinds of black pepper. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
  3. Stir in the grated garlic and cook briefly, just until fragrant.
  4. Add the fire-roasted tomatoes, rinsed lentils, white wine vinegar, thyme bundle, and vegetable broth. Stir everything together.
  5. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
  6. Add the chopped kale leaves and cook for another 5 minutes, until wilted.
  7. Remove the thyme bundle and taste the soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
  8. Serve warm, topped with chopped parsley, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and grated Parmesan if you like.

Notes

This is the kind of recipe that proves simple ingredients can create something truly satisfying.
With its comforting texture and balanced flavor, it’s a soup you’ll find yourself making again and again.