Description
Easy Lemon Lentil Soup is a light, nourishing, and comforting dish made with tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and a bright lemon flavor. This Mediterranean-inspired vegan soup is simple to prepare, packed with wholesome ingredients, and perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 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: Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to create a flavorful base.
- Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot and cook for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and aromatic.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its fragrance without burning.
- Add lentils and spices: Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, ground cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper to the pot, stirring to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 25–30 minutes until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
- Incorporate lemon juice: Stir in the fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors and add a zesty finish.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve the soup warm for the best comforting taste.
Notes
- Add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrition and color.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice to suit your personal taste preferences for tartness.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
