Description
This Creamy Red Lentil Soup is a hearty, protein-packed, and comforting dish made with red lentils, aromatic vegetables, and warm spices. Naturally vegan and gluten-free, this easy one-pot soup is perfect for meal prep or a cozy dinner. Ready in under an hour, it's a nourishing and flavorful recipe you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and carrots; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes; cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Add Lentils and Broth
- Add rinsed red lentils, stirring to coat with spices.
- Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with juices; mix well.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
3. Simmer the Soup
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to low.
- Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender and creamy.
4. Finish the Soup
- Stir in lemon juice and spinach/kale (if using), allowing it to wilt for 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve
- Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro, and enjoy!
Notes
- For a spicier soup, add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the stove or microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
