Red Lentil Soup Recipe With Vegetables

If you’re looking for a comforting bowl of goodness, this Red Lentil Soup Recipe With Vegetables is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that warms your heart and fills your belly. The combination of tender lentils and vibrant veggies creates a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up — you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner!

What makes this soup extra special is its flexibility. You can customize it to suit your tastes or whatever you have on hand. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or a filling dinner, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in under an hour, making it perfect for those evenings when time is tight.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and protein-rich lentils, it’s a nourishing option for anyone looking to eat well.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the mild flavors, and it’s a great way to sneak in some veggies!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can easily prepare this soup ahead of time and reheat it for lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of spices and fresh ingredients creates a depth of flavor that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This red lentil soup recipe with vegetables calls for simple, wholesome ingredients. You might already have most of them in your pantry! Let’s gather everything you need to create this delicious soup.

 

For the Soup

• 3 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion
• 3 carrots, peeled
• 2 celery stalks
• 1 potato, peeled
• 2 garlic cloves, minced (or 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder)
• 2 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin or curry powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Optional: pinch of cayenne, chili powder and/or coriander seed
• 4 cups (946ml) vegetable stock or broth (1 box)
• 1 cup (237m) water
• 1 cup (200g) red lentils
• 1/2 large lemon (lemon zest and juice)
• 1/4 cup (2 oz) chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

Variations

The beauty of this red lentil soup recipe with vegetables lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you like or have available. Here are some fun ideas:

• Add Leafy Greens: Toss in some spinach or kale towards the end for added nutrition and color.
• Make It Creamy: Blend half of the soup after cooking for a creamy texture while keeping some chunks intact.
• Spice It Up: If you enjoy heat, add more cayenne or chili powder to give the soup an extra kick.
• Switch the Veggies: Use whatever vegetables are in season or what you have on hand — zucchini or bell peppers would work beautifully!

How to Make Red Lentil Soup Recipe With Vegetables

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by dicing your carrots, onion, celery, and potato. If you’re short on time, just cut them into large chunks and pulse them in a food processor until roughly chopped. This will save you some prep time while still giving your soup a great texture!

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables and Garlic

In a medium-large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced vegetables and sauté them until they soften — about 5 minutes should do the trick! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding garlic at this stage will bring out its lovely aroma; sauté for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasonings and Other Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring all those wonderful flavors together! Add tomato paste along with cumin or curry powder, salt, pepper, and any optional spices if you’re using them. Stir everything together for about 2 minutes before adding vegetable stock, water, and red lentils. This step helps deepen the flavors right from the start.

Step 4: Cook

Bring your soup to a boil before reducing the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot partially and let it simmer away for about 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when both the lentils and vegetables are tender. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be irresistible!

Step 5: Finish the Soup and Serve

To brighten up your soup’s flavors, stir in lemon juice and zest along with parsley or cilantro just before serving. Give it a taste; adjust seasoning if needed — perhaps more salt? A drizzle of good olive oil on top adds an extra touch! Serve with lemon wedges on the side for those who want an extra zing.

Enjoy your hearty bowl of red lentil soup! It’s perfect as a standalone dish or served alongside crusty bread for dipping.

Pro Tips for Making Red Lentil Soup Recipe With Vegetables

Cooking can be a delightful experience, especially when you have a few tips up your sleeve to make it even better!

• Use Fresh Vegetables: Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also provide more nutrients. Look for vibrant vegetables that are in season for the best taste.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re a fan of heat, don’t hesitate to add extra cayenne or chili powder. It allows you to customize the soup to your liking and gives it an exciting kick.
• Let It Simmer Longer for Depth of Flavor: While the recipe suggests 30 minutes, letting it simmer longer can deepen the flavors. Just be sure to add more liquid if needed!
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or thyme can bring a unique twist to your soup. They add freshness and a lovely aroma that complements the lentils beautifully.
• Blend for Creaminess: For a creamy texture, consider blending half of the soup with an immersion blender. This will give you a hearty yet smooth consistency without adding dairy.

How to Serve Red Lentil Soup Recipe With Vegetables

Serving this red lentil soup is all about creating a warm and inviting meal experience. Here are some ideas to present it beautifully!

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some additional parsley or cilantro on top before serving. This adds color and freshness that enhances both presentation and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating brightens up the flavors in every bite.

Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. The chewy texture contrasts nicely with the creamy soup, making each bite delightful.
• Side Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the hearty soup while adding crunch.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables pair wonderfully as a side dish. Their caramelized sweetness complements the savory notes of the soup.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serving over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa adds extra substance to your meal. Both options absorb flavors well and make this dish even more filling!

Make Ahead and Storage

This red lentil soup recipe with vegetables is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy healthy, hearty meals throughout the week. It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of each container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

 

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What can I serve with my Red Lentil Soup Recipe With Vegetables?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You can also enjoy it over cooked grains like rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.

Can I customize my Red Lentil Soup Recipe With Vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like spinach or bell peppers. You can also adjust the spices according to your taste preferences!

How long does Red Lentil Soup Recipe With Vegetables last in the fridge?

The soup will last in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just make sure it cools down completely before storing.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this red lentil soup recipe with vegetables! It’s a wonderful dish that not only nourishes but also warms the soul. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy weeknight dinner or prepare it ahead for a busy week, I’m sure you’ll love every spoonful. Don’t hesitate to share your experiences or variations; I would love to hear how your version turns out. Happy cooking!