Vegetable Lentil Soup is a warm, hearty dish made with tender lentils and fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes. It’s healthy, filling, and easy to make on a busy day.
I love how this soup smells while cooking—like a cozy hug in a bowl! Sometimes I add a little extra spice just for fun.
For a quick meal, I blend part of the soup to make it thicker or sprinkle some fresh herbs on top. It’s simple, tasty, and good for you!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Brown Lentils: These are the backbone of the soup, providing texture and protein. Rinse well before cooking. Red lentils cook faster and break down into a thicker broth, perfect if you prefer a smoother soup.
Carrots: They add sweetness and color, balancing the spices. For a softer texture, chop evenly. You can swap in parsnips or sweet potatoes if you like a different sweetness and texture.
Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they give the soup a bright, tangy flavor. Use crushed canned tomatoes for simplicity. If you’re out, a little tomato paste mixed with water works well too.
Garlic & Onion: These aromatics create a flavorful base. Use fresh garlic and onion for the best flavor. Powdered versions are okay in a pinch; just cut down the amount slightly.
Vegetable Broth: The liquid that brings everything together. Use low-sodium broth to control salt. Water with a bouillon cube can substitute if needed.
How do I simmer lentil soup without overcooking the lentils?
Begin with a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Avoid boiling vigorously, which can turn lentils mushy or break apart unevenly. Check the soup after 20 minutes—lentils should be tender but not falling apart. Adjust heat if needed.
- Keep the heat at a steady simmer to prevent uneven cooking.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom.
- Cook just until the lentils are tender, then turn off heat to avoid overcooking.
How to Make Vegetable Lentil Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Legumes and Broth
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 35 minutes. Total time: 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the vegetables
Chop the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Gather all ingredients before cooking.
2. 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.
3. Add garlic and seasonings
Stir in garlic and thyme. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add lentils and broth
Pour in rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Stir well. Bring to a boil over high heat.
5. Simmer the soup
Reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally.
6. Finish and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot with bread or a side salad. Enjoy your soup!
