A hearty and comforting soup featuring red lentils, aromatic vegetables, and warm spices. This creamy, protein-packed dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a nourishing meal. With its rich texture and bold flavors, this red lentil soup is ideal for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Make – This one-pot recipe requires minimal effort and is ready in under an hour.
Nutritious & Protein-Packed – Red lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber.
Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free – A wholesome dish suitable for various dietary needs.
Flavorful & Comforting – Warm spices and aromatics create a rich, deep flavor.
Great for Meal Prep – Makes a big batch that stores well for leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Onion, diced
Carrots, diced
Garlic, minced
Ground cumin
Ground coriander
Smoked paprika
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Red lentils, rinsed
Vegetable broth
Diced tomatoes (canned)
Salt and black pepper
Lemon juice
Fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Directions

Sauté the Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add diced onion and carrots; sauté until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
Stir in garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add Lentils and Broth

Add rinsed red lentils, stirring to coat with the vegetables and spices.
Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with juices; mix well.
Season with salt and black pepper.

Simmer the Soup

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low.
Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until lentils are tender and creamy.

Finish the Soup

Stir in lemon juice and spinach or kale (if using), allowing it to wilt for 2-3 minutes.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for more heat.
Creamier Texture – Blend part of the soup with an immersion blender for extra creaminess.
Extra Protein – Stir in cooked chickpeas or a scoop of plant-based protein powder.
Herbaceous Flavor – Add fresh thyme or oregano for extra depth.
Different Greens – Swap spinach or kale for Swiss chard or collard greens.

Storage & Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over medium heat, adding water or broth if it thickens too much. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How can I make this soup even creamier?

You can blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or use coconut milk for extra creaminess.

Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?

Red lentils cook faster and become creamy, while green or brown lentils hold their shape more. You can use them, but the texture will be different.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Yes! It stores well and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prepping.

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Sauté the aromatics first, then cook on high pressure for 10 minutes and do a natural release.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, pita, or a fresh salad.

Can I make this without tomatoes?

Yes, omit the diced tomatoes and use an extra cup of vegetable broth for a tomato-free version.

What if my soup is too thick?

Simply add more vegetable broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I add coconut milk?

Absolutely! Stir in ½ cup of coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.

How can I make this more filling?

Serve it with quinoa, rice, or a protein source like tofu or chickpeas for a heartier meal.

Does this soup freeze well?

Yes, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy red lentil soup is a delicious, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you're looking for a comforting dish, a high-protein vegan meal, or a quick one-pot recipe, this soup has it all. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of warmth and flavor!