Lentil(Soup)
A hearty and nutritious lentil soup with vegetables and tomato sauce, perfect for comforting meals, suitable for vegetarians and those seeking a wholesome, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place all ingredients in a suitable size pot with enough water to achieve your desired soup thickness.
- Cook at medium heat for about 1 1/2 hours or until the lentils are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. If you're out of lentils, you can substitute with canned beans, adjusting the cooking time accordingly. Adding a splash of white wine sangria can enhance the flavor profile. Don't forget to season your soup with pepper to taste for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this lentil soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side of Sue's Tabbouleh Salad for a refreshing contrast. It pairs beautifully with Garlic Dijon Dressing drizzled over a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, consider adding a protein like grilled chicken or tofu alongside.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen the soup if it thickens. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This soup also freezes well for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil(Soup) contains roughly 511 calories, with 13g protein, 81g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 595mg per serving (26% 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 make this lentil soup ahead of time?
Yes, lentil soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to reheat it gently to maintain the texture of the lentils.
What can I substitute for tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use crushed tomatoes or even a can of diced tomatoes blended into a puree. For a different flavor profile, consider adding a bit of tomato paste along with vegetable broth for a richer soup.
Is this lentil soup vegan?
Yes, this lentil soup recipe is completely vegan as it contains no animal products. It's a great option for those following vegan recipes, and you can easily customize it with additional vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
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).