Aromatic Green Lentil Soup Recipe With Home Goodness

by Julia
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August 10, 2023

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Indulge in the rustic elegance of our Green Lentil Soup recipe, a heartwarming bowl of nourishment that promises to comfort and satisfy. These verdant lentils are simmered to perfection, their earthy goodness enhanced by a melange of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs. Each spoonful is a wholesome embrace, with a hint of spice to tickle the palate. Dive into this nutritious masterpiece and discover a timeless classic, reimagined for the modern gourmet.

Carrots and celery add sweetness, complementing the earthy lentils. Spices such as cumin and paprika spark an unexpected zest. The result? A soup that’s both nourishing and enticing. Each spoonful reveals the depth of flavor, and the attention to detail.

Start a culinary journey with green lentil soup. It’s a bowl of warm comfort, a healthy choice, and a burst of flavor. Experience a recipe that’s simple yet delightful. The humble green lentils transform into a silky soup packed with nutrients. Aromatics like onions and garlic intertwine, creating a savory base.

It’s a soup for chilly days, family dinners, and mindful meals. Above all, it’s a soup for you. So embark on this flavorful exploration. Find joy in the creation process, and feel satisfaction in the final product.

Green lentil soup – the key to unlocking a hearty, wholesome meal.

What Is Green Lentil Soup Recipe?

Green lentil soup is a hearty, nutritious dish made from green lentils. The recipe begins with sautéing onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to form a flavorful base. Green lentils, along with water or broth, are added and simmered until soft. Seasonings such as cumin, paprika, and bay leaves lend a savory depth to the soup.

Some versions also include leafy greens like spinach or kale for added nutrients. The result is a thick, rich soup with a depth of flavor, excellent for a wholesome meal. Green lentil soup offers health, comfort, and taste all in one bowl.

Can You Vary Green Lentil Soup Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Vegan/Vegetarian The base recipe is already vegan and vegetarian. You can add more veggies or tofu for protein.
Gluten-Free The soup is naturally gluten-free. Make sure to use gluten-free broth if you’re using store-bought.
Paleo Lentils are not typically paleo-friendly. Substitute lentils with a paleo-friendly protein like chicken or turkey. Also, add more vegetables.
Keto Lentils are high in carbs, which is not ideal for a keto d iet. You can replace lentils with low-carb veggies like cauliflower or zucchini and add a high-fat ingredient like coconut cream for richness.
Whole30 Like paleo, lentils aren’t Whole30-compliant. Substitute lentils with compliant protein like chicken or beef. Use compliant broth and canned tomatoes with no added sugar or preservatives.

Recipe Directions

Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a soup pot.
Add the chopped onion and a pinch of salt. Sauté for 5-10 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and starts to caramelize.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, dried oregano, ground cumin, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté the vegetables and herbs until they are tender and lightly browned, about 8-10 minutes.
Incorporate the diced tomatoes and the rinsed lentils into the pot. Mix everything together to combine the flavors.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the bay leaf. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and fully cooked.
When the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped spinach and fresh lemon juice. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the flavors meld.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Ladle the hot and comforting lentil and vegetable soup into bowls. Serve with crusty bread, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a dollop of yogurt if desired.
Enjoy your homemade hearty lentil and vegetable soup as a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days!

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Green lentil soup is incredibly adaptable. Here are some variations, add-ons, and toppings you can try:

Variations

Spicy Lentil Soup: Add a diced jalapeno or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a kick.
Curried Lentil Soup: Stir in curry powder with the vegetables for an Indian-inspired flavor.
Italian Lentil Soup: Add Italian seasoning and finish with a sprinkle of parmesan (if not vegan).
Lentil and Sausage Soup: Add chopped vegan or regular sausage for a protein boost (note this would not be vegan/vegetarian).

Add-Ons

Additional Vegetables: Bell peppers, zucchini, squash, or potatoes would all be great additions.
Protein: For a heartier soup, add tofu, chickpeas, or shredded chicken (for non-vegans/vegetarians).
Grains: Stir in cooked quinoa, brown rice, or barley for added texture and nutrition.

Toppings

Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or dill add a pop of color and flavor.
Crunch: Add croutons, toasted seeds, or nuts for a crunchy texture.
Cream: A swirl of coconut milk or a dollop of Greek yogurt (for non-vegans) adds creaminess.
Cheese: Sprinkle vegan or regular shredded cheese on top for added richness (for non-vegans).

Can I Make Green Lentil Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Yes, you can prepare green lentil soup in both a slow cooker and an Instant Pot. Here’s how:

Slow Cooker Method

Sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil over medium heat in a skillet until golden. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Add herbs, salt, pepper, lentils, tomatoes, broth, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.
Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours or until the lentils are tender.
Stir in the spinach until wilted. Add lemon juice, adjust seasonings, and serve.

Instant Pot Method

Select the ‘Sauté’ function on the Instant Pot. Add the olive oil, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, herbs, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are golden.
Add the lentils, tomatoes, broth, and bay leaf.
Secure the lid and set the pressure release to ‘Sealing.‘ Cook at high pressure for 15 minutes.
Once the cooking is complete, let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then move the pressure release to ‘Venting’ to release any remaining pressure.
Open the pot and stir in the spinach until wilted. Add the lemon juice, adjust the seasonings, and serve.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Both store-bought and homemade broths can work well for your green lentil soup. Here are some considerations for each option:

Store-Bought Broth

This option is convenient and time-saving. It’s readily available in various flavors and dietary options like low-sodium, gluten-free, or organic. Always opt for low-sodium versions when available, as this allows you to better control the overall salt content of your soup.

Homemade Broth

Making broth at home allows you to customize the flavors exactly to your liking. It’s often more nutritious and free from preservatives or artificial ingredients. However, it requires more time and planning.

How To Serve?

Serving green lentil soup at its best involves some easy but effective steps:

Serve Hot: Green lentil soup is best served hot. Ensure it’s thoroughly heated before serving.
Freshly Squeezed Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can enhance the flavors.
Add Greens: Add fresh spinach or another leafy green of choice just before serving to keep them vibrant and slightly crunchy.
Garnish: Garnish with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, or a dash of red pepper flakes for extra flavor and visual appeal.
Serve with Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a bread roll on the side makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Bowl Selection: Choose a deep bowl to keep the soup hot longer and to allow for easy spooning.

Perfect Side Dishes

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The classic combination of soup and a sandwich works well here. A grilled cheese sandwich is a comforting choice.
Garden Salad: A light, fresh salad with a simple vinaigrette complements the heartiness of the soup.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables provide a different texture and deepen the overall flavor profile of the meal.
Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread can be a delicious accompaniment to dip into the soup.
Quinoa Salad: A cold quinoa salad with lots of fresh veggies adds a protein-packed side to this meal.
Bruschetta: Tomato and basil bruschetta on toasted baguette slices provide a crunchy, flavorful contrast to the soup.

Storage & Make Ahead

Refrigeration: Store leftover Green Lentil Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup’s flavors tend to meld and improve with time.
Freezing: Lentil soups freeze well. Freeze in individual portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove for a quick meal.
Make Ahead: Prepare the soup base and lentils in advance, excluding tender vegetables and fresh herbs. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Add these elements just before serving to maintain their texture and vibrancy.
Flavor Infusion: Letting the soup sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before serving enhances the overall taste.
Portion Separation: If making a large batch, store the soup and solids separately. Combine when reheating to preserve the soup’s texture.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

There are several ways to use leftover green lentil soup:

Freeze for Later: As mentioned earlier, you can freeze the soup in individual portions for quick and easy meals later.
Stir in Pasta: Cook some pasta separately, then stir it into reheated soup for a hearty lentil and pasta dish.
Use as a Sauce: Blend the soup until smooth and use it as a sauce for dishes like roasted vegetables or grilled chicken.
Stuffed Peppers: Use the soup as a filling for bell peppers, top with cheese, and bake until tender and melty.
Add to a Casserole: Use the soup as a base for a casserole. Add some veggies, protein, and perhaps some cheese, then bake.
Use as a Base for Curry: Use the soup as a base for a vegetable or chicken curry. Just add some curry spices, extra veggies, and your protein of choice.

TIPS

Citrus Burst: Amp up the freshness by stirring in a splash of lemon or lime juice just before serving, adding a zesty kick to your green lentil soup.
Herb Fusion: Elevate flavors with a blend of fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, and dill. Chop them finely and sprinkle on top for a burst of aromatic goodness.
Spicy Surprise: Introduce a hint of heat with a dash of red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños, awakening your taste buds with every spoonful.
Coconut Charm: For a tropical twist, swirl in creamy coconut milk to impart a rich, velvety texture and a subtle sweetness.
Smoky Magic: Infuse a smoky depth by adding a touch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder, creating layers of complexity in your green lentil soup.