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Hearty and Easy Classic Lentil Soup

A close-up of a white bowl filled with hearty lentil soup, featuring visible lentils, diced carrots, celery, and tomatoes, seasoned with pepper.
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Prepare this simple, nutritious lentil soup with vegetables. It is a budget-friendly, satisfying meal ready in under 40 minutes, perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
  2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and oregano. Add the bay leaf.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  6. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
  7. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, if using, before serving.

Notes

  • For an Italian variation, add 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil along with the other herbs.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, mash about 1 cup of the cooked soup against the side of the pot with a spoon, then stir it back in.
  • This soup freezes well for future quick meals.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://flavorzine.com/easy-lentil-soup-recipe-40-minute/