Delicious Lentil Soup with Vegetables and Lemon

Lentil soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that has been a staple in many kitchens around the world. This delightful recipe blends hearty lentils with a medley of fresh vegetables and the zesty brightness of lemon, making it not only delicious but also a healthy option for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch, this lentil soup is sure to please your taste buds.

Ingredients

To make a scrumptious pot of lentil soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 cup of dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery ribs, diced
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 6 cups of vegetable broth (or water, if preferred)
• 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Veggies and Spices

To the pot, add the diced carrots, celery, zucchini, and red bell pepper. Cook the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. Sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried thyme, salt, and pepper, stirring well to combine the spices with the vegetables.

Step 3: Incorporate Lentils and Broth

Next, pour in the rinsed lentils and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure the lentils don’t stick to the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Add Lemon Juice

Once the lentils are cooked, remove the pot from heat and stir in the juice of 1 lemon. This will add a refreshing zing to your soup, enhancing its flavor.

Step 5: Taste and Serve

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup directly in the pot, or ladle some into a blender to achieve your desired consistency.

To serve, ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Enjoy with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients such as iron and folate. This soup is not only satisfying but also a great way to increase your vegetable intake. The addition of lemon juice not only provides a bright flavor but also offers a dose of vitamin C.

Conclusion

This lentil soup with vegetables and lemon is sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrition, and bursting with flavor. Best of all, it’s perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day! So go ahead, give this recipe a try and warm your soul with each delicious spoonful.

Happy cooking!