How The Absolute Best Lentil Soup Boosts Your Health and Flavor

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially when it’s packed with nutrients and flavor. Today, I’m excited to share with you my recipe for The Absolute Best Lentil Soup. This soup is not only a delightful addition to your dinner table but also a fantastic way to boost your health. If you’re looking for quick family dinners that are both satisfying and nutritious, you’ve come to the right place!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in protein and fiber, making it a filling meal.
• Perfect for meal prep and easy to store for later.
• Versatile and can be customized with your favorite spices.
• Great for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike!
• Ready in just 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for 30-minute meals.

Ingredients

To make The Absolute Best Lentil Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

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

Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make the Recipe

Now, let’s dive into the easy lentil soup instructions that will have your kitchen smelling divine!

1. Peel and dice the 2 medium carrots and 1 medium yellow onion. Mince the 4 cloves of garlic.
2. Place the 2 cups of dried red lentils in a fine-mesh strainer. Pick through the lentils, discarding any broken or discolored ones. Rinse under cool water until the water runs clear, about 1 minute. Set aside to drain while you cook the vegetables.
3. Heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the carrots and onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic, 1 tablespoon of curry powder, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add the lentils, 1 (15-ounce) can of tomato sauce, and 6 cups of broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cover and reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally until the lentils are tender, about 18 to 22 minutes.
5. Remove from the heat and stir in the 5 cups of spinach until wilted. Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some helpful suggestions to ensure your best lentil soup recipe turns out perfectly:

• Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the spinach.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• This soup freezes beautifully, so make a double batch and enjoy it later!

How to Serve

When it comes to serving The Absolute Best Lentil Soup, I love to pair it with a slice of crusty bread or a fresh salad. It’s also delicious topped with a dollop of yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. If you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas, this soup is a fantastic option that will please everyone at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This lentil soup is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just reheat on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.

For more healthy options, check out my post on Healthy Drinks and Juices to Hydrate and Cleanse the Body or try my Green Detox Juice for a refreshing boost!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and let’s make this delish lentil soup that’s sure to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!