There’s something truly magical about a warm bowl of soup, isn’t there? Whenever the weather turns chilly or I need a cozy pick-me-up, I turn to my Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup. It’s a comforting hug in a bowl! Packed with nutritious lentils and a rainbow of veggies, this soup is not only filling but also so good for you. I love that it’s versatile enough for any season—whether it’s a crisp autumn evening or a light summer lunch, it always hits the spot. Plus, it fits perfectly into my healthy lifestyle, making it a go-to recipe for meal prep!

Ingredients List

1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
1 onion, chopped into small pieces
2 carrots, diced into bite-sized cubes
2 celery stalks, diced to match the carrots
3 cloves garlic, minced finely for that aromatic kick
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, juice included for extra flavor
6 cups vegetable broth, homemade or store-bought
1 teaspoon dried thyme, or fresh if you have it!
1 teaspoon ground cumin to give it a nice warmth
Salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy!
2 cups spinach, chopped (fresh or frozen works great)

How to Prepare Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup

Alright, let’s dive into making this glorious Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup! It’s super simple and so rewarding. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot full of goodness in no time.

Step 1: Sauté Vegetables

First things first, grab a large pot and heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Once it’s nice and shimmering, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cook these beauties for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and fragrant. Trust me, your kitchen will start to smell divine!

Step 2: Add Garlic

Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute. You want that garlic to release its magic without burning, so keep an eye on it. It’ll add a lovely depth of flavor to your soup!

Step 3: Combine Main Ingredients

Now it’s time to make this soup hearty! Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with all that juicy goodness), vegetable broth, dried thyme, and ground cumin to the pot. Give everything a good stir, and bring it to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Let your soup simmer for about 30 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld together beautifully! Be sure to check the consistency and taste it along the way. If you like it thicker, let it simmer a bit longer; if it’s too thick, just add a splash more broth.

Step 5: Add Spinach and Season

Finally, stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook for an additional 5 minutes until wilted. Right before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy here! This is where you can really make it your own. Give it a taste and adjust as needed!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This soup comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Nutritionally Packed: With lentils and a variety of veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that fuels your body.
Incredibly Filling: The combination of lentils and vegetables means you won’t be reaching for snacks later.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—just store it in the fridge or freeze for later!
Customizable: Feel free to throw in any veggies you have on hand or swap spices to suit your taste.
Vegan Friendly: It fits into any dietary lifestyle, so everyone can enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!
Comforting and Delicious: The flavors are warm and inviting, making it a go-to comfort food any time of the year.

Tips for Success

I want you to nail this Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup, so here are some of my best tips to ensure it turns out amazing every time!

Rinse Your Lentils: Make sure to rinse the lentils well before adding them to the pot. This helps remove any dirt or debris and ensures a cleaner flavor in the soup.
Don’t Skip the Sauté: Sautéing the vegetables at the beginning is key! It builds a flavor base that makes your soup taste so much richer and more complex.
Season Gradually: When it comes to seasoning, start small and adjust as you go. You can always add more salt and pepper later, but you can’t take it out once it’s in!
Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to mix up the herbs! Rosemary or bay leaves can add a lovely twist. Just remember to remove any whole herbs before serving.
Texture Matters: If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. Just blend until it’s as smooth as you like, then stir it back into the pot!
Flavor Boost: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. It brightens everything up beautifully!
Watch Your Cook Time: If you overcook the lentils, they can get mushy. Keep an eye on them during the simmering phase, and taste to find your perfect texture!

By following these tips, you’ll elevate your soup to the next level! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Let’s talk about how to keep that delicious Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup fresh and tasty! Proper storage is key, and I’ve got some great tips to help you enjoy every last drop.

First off, if you have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good!), let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to label it with the date, so you always know when it was made!

If you’re planning to enjoy this soup later, it freezes beautifully! Portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags (just remember to leave some space for expansion) and pop it in the freezer. It’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Now, for reheating, the stovetop is my favorite method because it warms the soup evenly. Just pour the desired amount into a pot, heat over medium-low, and stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit thick after freezing, don’t worry! Just add a splash of water or broth to get it back to your preferred consistency.

If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Pour your soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a microwave-safe lid or plate, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Just be careful—it can get super hot, so use oven mitts!

With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup any time you want, without losing that wonderful flavor and texture. Yum!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying my Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup, knowing the nutritional benefits just adds to the joy! However, please keep in mind that the nutrition values may vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use. I always recommend checking your labels for the most accurate information.

That said, here’s a typical nutritional breakdown per serving (1 cup):

Calories: 180
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 9g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 300mg

With all those nutrients packed in, this soup is not just delicious but also a fantastic addition to your healthy eating plan! Enjoy every spoonful, knowing you’re fueling your body right!

FAQ Section

I know you might have some questions about my Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup, so let’s tackle those common queries! I want you to feel totally confident making this delicious soup, so here we go!

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! One of the best parts about this soup is its versatility. Feel free to swap in any veggies you love or have on hand—zucchini, bell peppers, or even sweet potatoes would work wonderfully!

What if I don’t have lentils?

No worries! If you’re out of lentils, you can use another type of bean like chickpeas or black beans. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary, so adjust accordingly.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup is naturally gluten-free! Just double-check your vegetable broth and any canned ingredients to ensure they’re also gluten-free.

How can I make this soup spicier?

If you love a little heat, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper while it simmers. You can also serve it with a drizzle of hot sauce on top for an extra kick!

How many servings does this recipe yield?

This recipe makes about 6 servings, perfect for a family dinner or meal prep! You can easily double it if you’re feeding a crowd or want leftovers for the week.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Just sauté your veggies first, then add everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours. It’ll be just as delicious!

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to label it with the date!

Hope this helps clear up any questions you had! Enjoy your cooking adventure with this Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup! It’s going to be a hit!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made this delicious Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup, let’s talk about how to make your meal even more delightful! There are a few simple pairings that really elevate the experience and make it a complete feast.

Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. I love a nice sourdough or a hearty whole grain—it’s the ultimate comfort combo!
Green Salad: A fresh, crisp salad on the side adds a lovely contrast to the warm soup. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette to keep things refreshing.
Grilled Cheese: For a fun twist, serve your soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. The melty cheese pairs beautifully with the savory soup. Yum!
Rice or Quinoa: If you want to bulk up your meal, consider serving the soup over a scoop of cooked rice or quinoa. It adds a nice texture and makes it even more filling!
Herb Garnish: Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro on top for a pop of color and freshness. It really brightens up the dish!

These serving suggestions not only complement the Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup but also make for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy. Enjoy every bite!

Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup: 7 Comforting Benefits

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A nutritious and filling soup made with lentils and a variety of vegetables.

Instructions

In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and cumin.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Add spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 180
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup, vegetable soup, lentil soup, healthy soup

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