A hearty, plant-based lentil soup packed with vegetables, herbs, and savory spices. Perfect for cozy dinners, meal prep, or healthy eating.
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced (optional)
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1 bay leaf
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 ½ cups dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
6 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
Fresh parsley or lemon juice for garnish
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 7–10 minutes until soft.
Add garlic, cumin, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir for 1 minute.
Stir in diced tomatoes and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
Add lentils and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 35–40 minutes.
Remove bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Optional: Blend part of the soup for creaminess.
Stir in spinach or kale and cook for 5 more minutes.
Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon juice before serving.
For creamier texture, blend ¼ of the soup. Freeze in batches for meal prep. Add chickpeas or quinoa for extra protein.