How do I make lentil soup from scratch?

Making this easy lentil soup recipe from scratch is wonderfully simple. Start by sautéing onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in olive oil, then add lentils, spices, and broth. Let it simmer until the lentils soften and the flavors meld together. The result is a hearty, homemade soup that feels like comfort in every bite.

What are the common mistakes in making lentil soup?

The most common mistake is overcooking the lentils or skipping the seasoning layers. Lentils cook quickly, so simmer them just until tender, not mushy. Another misstep is forgetting acid—a splash of lemon or vinegar at the end brightens the flavor and balances the earthy notes in your easy lentil soup recipe . If you’re craving something rich and creamy, my Chicken Wild Rice Soup Recipe delivers that restaurant-style texture with homemade simplicity.

What are the best seasonings for lentil soup?

Spices make all the difference. Cumin, paprika, turmeric, and bay leaf build a warm, savory base, while a hint of chili or harissa adds depth and personality. For a final touch, fresh herbs and lemon juice bring brightness to this easy lentil soup recipe , turning it from simple to unforgettable.

Should you soak lentils overnight before making soup?

No soaking is needed for most lentils, especially brown, green, or red. Unlike beans, they cook quickly—usually within 30 to 40 minutes. Soaking won’t harm them, but it isn’t necessary for this easy lentil soup recipe , which is designed for simplicity and speed. The Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup Recipe is another favorite — a thick, velvety bowl that feels like dining out without leaving your kitchen.

Easy Lentil Soup Recipe – 5 Amazing Flavors for Ultimate Comfort

Name: Easy Lentil Soup Recipe – A Comforting Bowl of Flavor You’ll Love
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Moroccan, Mediterranean, American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 ½ cups brown or green lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon turmeric; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

Description

This easy lentil soup recipe is a hearty Moroccan-inspired dish with a California twist. Packed with lentils, vegetables, and warm spices, it’s the perfect comfort meal for any season.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 ½ cups brown or green lentils (rinsed)

1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

6 cups vegetable broth

1 tsp ground cumin

½ tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp turmeric

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp chopped parsley

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until soft.

2. Add garlic, cumin, paprika, and turmeric. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil.

4. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes until lentils are tender.

5. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.

6. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

For a creamier texture, mash a few lentils with the back of your spoon before serving.

Add spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes for extra greens.

The soup thickens as it cools; add broth when reheating.

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Category: Soup, Dinner, Comfort Food
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Moroccan, Mediterranean, American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 260
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 540mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fiber: 13g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 0mg