Lentil Lemon Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that is perfect for any time of the year. This soup is packed with protein-rich lentils, fresh vegetables, and a burst of citrusy flavor from the lemon juice. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this Lentil Lemon Soup is sure to satisfy your craving for a warm and delicious meal.
Ingredients for Lentil Lemon Soup
To make Lentil Lemon Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Olive oil, for sautéing
How to Make Lentil Lemon Soup
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
- Add the Lentils and Spices:
- Add the rinsed and drained lentils to the pot, along with the ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to coat the lentils and vegetables in the spices.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Blend the Soup (Optional):
- For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend some of the soup until it reaches your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can transfer a portion of the soup to a blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Add the Lemon Juice and Zest:
- Stir in the lemon juice and zest. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve the Soup:
- Ladle the Lentil Lemon Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot, with crusty bread or a side salad, if desired.
About the Main Ingredients
Lentils:
Lentils are a nutritious legume that are high in protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein and are known for their ability to help lower cholesterol and improve heart health. Lentils come in various colors, including green, brown, and red, and each variety has its own unique flavor and texture.
Vegetables:
Onions, carrots, celery, and garlic are staple ingredients in this soup. They add flavor, texture, and nutrients to the dish. Onions and garlic provide a savory base, while carrots and celery add sweetness and crunch. These vegetables are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthy addition to any meal.
Spices:
Ground cumin, turmeric, coriander, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper add depth and warmth to the soup. Cumin and coriander provide earthy flavors, turmeric adds a vibrant color and anti-inflammatory properties, smoked paprika lends a smoky note, and cayenne pepper adds a hint of heat. Adjust the amount of spices according to your taste preferences.
Lemon:
Fresh lemon juice and zest brighten up the soup and add a refreshing citrusy flavor. Lemons are also rich in vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and adds a burst of freshness to the dish. Adjust the amount of lemon juice and zest to suit your taste.
Vegetable Broth:
Vegetable broth serves as the base of the soup and adds depth of flavor. You can use store-bought vegetable broth or make your own at home. Look for low-sodium vegetable broth if you’re watching your sodium intake.
Lentil Lemon Soup is a nutritious and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a light and healthy lunch or a comforting dinner, this soup is sure to hit the spot. Enjoy the warm and inviting flavors of this delicious Lentil Lemon Soup!
