Quick and Easy Lentil Soup Recipe for a Tasty Lunch: Homemade Cooking Ideas and Tips

Here’s a hearty and nutritious lentil soup recipe:

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup dried lentils (green, brown, or red)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or water + bouillon)
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp turmeric (optional)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.

2. Add Lentils and Spices:
   Stir in lentils, cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

3. Add Broth and Tomatoes:
   Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (with juice). Add the bay leaf.

4. Simmer:
   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes (or until the lentils are tender). Stir occasionally.

5. Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste and season with salt and pepper. Add lemon juice if desired for a bright, tangy finish.

6. Serve:
   Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.

Variations

• Keto-Friendly: Substitute lentils with cauliflower or zucchini chunks for a lower-carb option.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Creamy Version: Blend half the soup with an immersion blender for a creamy texture.

Enjoy this wholesome, flavorful soup! Let me know if you’d like a tailored version. 😊