Name: Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Global
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups chopped kale or spinach; Salt and black pepper to taste

Wholesome, hearty, and incredibly satisfying—this Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup is the kind of meal that soothes your soul and fuels your body. Whether you’re looking to eat lighter, incorporate more plant-based meals into your routine, or just need something comforting on a cold night, this soup ticks all the boxes.

It’s a one-pot wonder packed with earthy lentils, tender vegetables, and warming spices that come together into something greater than the sum of their parts. Plus, it’s naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it perfect for a variety of dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

What Kind of Lentils Should I Use?

For the best texture and quick cooking time, use brown or green lentils. These varieties hold their shape well and don’t turn mushy, which is key for a satisfying soup. Red lentils can be used in a pinch, but they tend to break down into more of a stew-like consistency. Whichever you choose, make sure to rinse them thoroughly before adding to the pot.

Ingredients for the Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup

Lentils: The protein-packed star of this soup. Brown or green lentils offer the ideal bite.

Onion & Garlic: These build the aromatic base that gives the soup depth and warmth.

Carrots & Celery: Classic soup staples that bring natural sweetness and crunch.

Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and a bit of brightness to the broth.

Vegetable Broth: Rich, flavorful liquid to cook the lentils and meld all the flavors.

Kale or Spinach: Stirred in at the end for a burst of color and added nutrients.

Olive Oil: For sautéing and a silky texture.

Spices (Cumin, Paprika, Thyme, Bay Leaf): These add warmth and complexity without overpowering the lentils.

Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout.

How To Make the Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Step 2: Add the Seasonings

Sprinkle in your cumin, paprika, thyme, and a bay leaf. Let the spices bloom in the oil and aromatics for a minute to deepen their flavor.

Step 3: Stir in the Lentils and Tomatoes

Add the rinsed lentils and canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir to combine everything well with the spice and veggie mix.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable broth and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 25–30 minutes or until lentils are tender.

Step 5: Add Greens and Final Seasoning

Stir in chopped kale or spinach and let it wilt for about 5 minutes. Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly cracked black pepper as needed.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Ladle into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, drizzle with a touch of olive oil or squeeze of lemon for brightness.

How to Serve and Store Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup

Serve this soup warm with a crusty slice of sourdough or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. It pairs well with a green salad or a simple grilled sandwich for a well-rounded meal.

Leftovers? Even better the next day! Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully—let it cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, you can. Reduce the cooking time and use less broth since canned lentils are already cooked. Add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering to avoid mushiness.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper with the other spices. You can also stir in a spoonful of harissa for a bold, smoky heat.

Can I swap kale for something else?

Absolutely. Spinach, Swiss chard, or even finely shredded cabbage can be used. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

Is this soup high in protein?

Yes! Lentils are an excellent plant-based protein source. One bowl of this soup provides a solid amount of protein, plus fiber and essential nutrients.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Definitely. Sauté the aromatics first, then transfer all ingredients (except greens) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add greens 15 minutes before serving.

What if I don’t have vegetable broth?

Water with a bouillon cube or paste works in a pinch. Just adjust seasoning to taste.

Want More Soup Ideas?

If you loved this hearty lentil soup, you’ll definitely want to try more delicious and comforting bowls from Life with Nina:

Creamy Shrimp Chowder is a rich, indulgent option packed with flavor.
Zesty Tuscan Artichoke Soup brings a bright Mediterranean twist.
Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage Soup is cozy, cheesy, and perfect for chilly nights.
Crockpot Thai Coconut Chicken Soup delivers creamy, spiced comfort straight from your slow cooker.
Mediterranean White Beans & Greens is perfect if you’re craving a lighter but satisfying meal.

For more easy soup recipes and everyday inspiration, follow along on my Pinterest: Life with Nina on Pinterest

Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup

Author: Nina Johnson
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Global

Print Recipe

Description

This Healthy & Easy Lentil Soup is the ultimate nourishing comfort food. Packed with protein-rich lentils, colorful vegetables, and fragrant spices, it’s a one-pot meal that’s naturally vegan and gluten-free. Perfect for meal prep, cozy weeknights, or anytime you need a hearty, wholesome bowl of soup.

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add the cumin, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Let the spices bloom for about 1 minute, stirring to coat the vegetables.

4. Pour in the rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine everything evenly.

5. Add the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for 25–30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

6. Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for 5 more minutes, until wilted.

7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

8. Serve hot with a drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon if desired.