Description
This hearty Mediterranean Lentil Soup is packed with nutritious lentils, fresh vegetables, and warming spices, creating a flavorful and comforting meal perfect for any day. Its rich blend of cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, and turmeric infuses the broth with vibrant, aromatic notes, while fresh spinach adds a bright finish. Suitable for vegan and gluten-free diets, this soup is easy to prepare on the stovetop and makes for a satisfying, healthy dinner option.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups chopped fresh spinach or kale
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat the base: Warm the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, then sauté for 5 to 6 minutes until the vegetables soften and start to release their aroma.
- Add spices and garlic: Stir in minced garlic, ground cumin, coriander, smoked paprika, turmeric, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Combine lentils and liquids: Pour in the rinsed lentils, canned diced tomatoes with their juices, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Simmer the soup: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 to 35 minutes. Cook until lentils are tender and the flavors meld together.
- Add greens and finish: Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens wilt. Remove the pot from heat.
- Season and serve: Stir in fresh lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the soup hot.
Notes
- For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back into the pot.
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.
