Lentil Soup(Low Cholesterol)
A hearty, low-cholesterol lentil soup packed with vegetables and savory flavors, perfect for health-conscious eaters seeking a comforting, nutritious meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients into a 6-quart pan half filled with water.
- Simmer for 2 hours.
- Can add rice when serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your lentil soup, consider sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the pot. You can substitute dried herbs like thyme or bay leaves for a more aromatic profile. If you want a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before serving. Feel free to adjust the garlic to your taste and use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your lentil soup with a side of crusty whole-grain bread for a hearty meal. For a refreshing contrast, a simple salad dressed with French Dressing(Dietetic) complements the soup beautifully. You can also add a scoop of cooked rice to each bowl just before serving for extra texture and heartiness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze the soup in portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil Soup(Low Cholesterol) contains roughly 148 calories, with 5g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1997mg per serving (87% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Rinse and drain them, then add them to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through. This will prevent them from becoming too soft and mushy.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Lentil soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
What can I add to make this soup more filling?
You can add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for a heartier texture. Additionally, including some greens like spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking will not only increase nutrition but also enhance the flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).