Description
A hearty and wholesome Mediterranean Lentil Soup packed with vibrant flavors and nutrients, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3–4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 ½ cups brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh, chopped)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and dried oregano for an additional 1–2 minutes until the spices become fragrant.
- Add rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and diced tomatoes into the pot. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Cook the mixture for about 25–30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the fresh spinach or kale until wilted. Finish off with the juice of one lemon and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
Notes
For added flavor, consider serving with warm crusty bread or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean