A hearty and nutritious soup featuring tender lentils, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of herbs, all cooked to perfection in the Instant Pot. This vegan and gluten-free dish is both comforting and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – The Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time, making this a perfect weeknight meal.
Nutritious and Filling – Packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is a wholesome option for any meal.
Budget-Friendly – Lentils are inexpensive, and most ingredients are pantry staples.
Customizable – You can adjust the vegetables, spices, and even the type of lentils to suit your taste.
Great for Meal Prep – This soup stores well, making it perfect for leftovers and meal planning.

Ingredients

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

Olive oil
Onion, diced
Garlic, minced
Carrots, diced
Celery stalks, diced
Dried brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
Diced tomatoes (canned, with juices)
Vegetable broth
Dried thyme
Dried oregano
Bay leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Fresh spinach or kale, chopped (optional)
Lemon juice (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

Sauté the Vegetables

Set the Instant Pot to the 'Sauté' function and heat the olive oil.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes with their juices, vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
Stir to combine all ingredients.

Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set the valve to 'Sealing.'
Select the 'Pressure Cook' or 'Manual' setting and cook for 15 minutes on high pressure.

Natural Release

Once cooking is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes.
Carefully turn the valve to 'Venting' to release any remaining pressure. Remove the lid.

Add Greens (Optional)

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale until wilted.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the lemon juice, if desired, to enhance the flavors.
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot with crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus time for pressure build-up and release)
Total Time: Approximately 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy Kick – Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
Protein Boost – Stir in cooked quinoa or chickpeas for additional protein.
Richer Flavor – Add a splash of coconut milk or a spoonful of tomato paste.
Different Greens – Swap spinach or kale for Swiss chard or collard greens.
Herb Enhancements – Fresh rosemary or basil can provide a different depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezing: Let the soup cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water.

FAQs

How can I make this soup thicker?

Mash some of the lentils with a spoon or blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture.

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

Red lentils cook faster and break down more, resulting in a thicker, creamier soup rather than a chunkier texture.

What can I substitute for vegetable broth?

You can use water with a bouillon cube or homemade broth for a similar flavor.

Can I make this soup on the stovetop?

Yes! Simmer the ingredients for about 30–40 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Is this soup kid-friendly?

Absolutely! For a milder taste, reduce the garlic and seasonings slightly.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Yes, you can add diced chicken, turkey, or even sausage for extra protein.

What’s the best way to freeze this soup?

Cool the soup completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.

Does this soup taste better the next day?

Yes! The flavors deepen overnight, making it even more delicious.

Can I double the recipe?

As long as it fits in your Instant Pot without exceeding the max fill line, you can double it.

What should I serve with this soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Lentil Soup is a wholesome, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Packed with flavor, nutrition, and customizable options, it’s a must-try recipe for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you're meal prepping or just need a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to satisfy.