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Mediterranean Lentil Soup Recipe
why make this recipe
Mediterranean Lentil Soup is a hearty and nourishing dish that warms you up from the inside out. Lentils are a great source of protein and fiber, making this soup not only delicious but also healthy. It’s a perfect meal for a cozy evening or a quick lunch. Plus, it’s easy to make and uses simple ingredients you might already have in your pantry.
how to make Mediterranean Lentil Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
how to serve Mediterranean Lentil Soup
Serve the Mediterranean Lentil Soup hot in bowls. You can add a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top gives it a nice touch and adds freshness to the dish.
how to store Mediterranean Lentil Soup
To store leftover soup, allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.
tips to make Mediterranean Lentil Soup
- Rinse the lentils under cold water before adding them to the pot. This helps remove any debris or dust.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
- If you want a creamier soup, you can blend a portion of it with an immersion blender.
variation
For added spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or chili powder. You can also make it a complete meal by adding cooked rice or quinoa just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lentils?
Yes, you can use brown or green lentils. However, red lentils cook faster and will make the soup thicker.
Is this soup vegan?
Yes, this soup is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and doesn’t contain any animal products.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils are tender.
Mediterranean Lentil Soup
A hearty and nourishing soup made with lentils, vegetables, and spices, perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils Rinse under cold water before use
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth Ensure it is vegan if needed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust to personal preference
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- as needed Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for about 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
To store leftover soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating. For a creamier soup, consider blending a portion with an immersion blender.