Description
Easy Lemon Lentil Soup is a light yet comforting Mediterranean-inspired dish made with tender lentils, fresh vegetables, and a bright burst of lemon flavor. This nourishing and healthy soup is simple to prepare on the stovetop, making it perfect for a wholesome lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 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
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 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 the oil: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, preparing the base for sautéing your vegetables.
- Sauté vegetables: Add diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables are softened but not browned.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma without burning.
- Combine lentils and spices: Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, ground cumin, turmeric, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir everything together well.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed much of the liquid.
- Add the lemon juice: Stir the fresh lemon juice into the soup to brighten the flavors just before serving.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm for a comforting meal.
Notes
- For added nutrition and color, stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking until wilted.
- Adjust the amount of lemon juice according to your taste preference for more or less tanginess.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
