Description
Easy Lemon Lentil Soup is a light yet comforting Mediterranean-inspired dish featuring tender lentils simmered with fresh vegetables and bright lemon juice. This nourishing and vegan soup is simple to prepare, making it perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner that’s both gluten-free and packed with flavor.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
Legumes & Broth
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: In a large pot over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil to create a base for sautéing the vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot and cook for 4–5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant, which helps develop the soup’s depth of flavor.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, allowing its aroma to infuse the vegetables without burning.
- Add lentils and broth: Pour in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, ground cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25–30 minutes until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add lemon juice: Stir in 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice to brighten the soup with a fresh, tangy flavor.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color and freshness, then serve the soup warm for a nourishing meal.
Notes
- Add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of simmering for extra nutrition and color.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your taste preference for acidity.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
