Lemony Lentil Soup

Name: Lemony Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 21, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This Lemony Lentil Soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
Its bright flavors will invigorate your taste buds while being visually appealing in its sunny hue
This versatile recipe allows for customization based on your preferences and pantry staples
Ideal for meal prep, it also freezes beautifully for future enjoyment

I once served this soup at my book club meeting, and everyone left asking for the recipe.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Green or Brown Lentils: Opt for dried lentils as they hold their shape better during cooking and are packed with nutrients.
Fresh Lemon Juice: Use freshly squeezed lemon juice to enhance the soup’s brightness and flavor depth.
Carrots: Choose firm carrots that will add a touch of sweetness and texture to balance the earthiness of lentils.
Onion: A medium onion adds aromatic sweetness; sauté until translucent for maximum flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the dish with their robust aroma; use more if you’re feeling adventurous!
Vegetable Broth: For a rich base, homemade broth works wonders, but store-bought also saves time without sacrificing flavor.
Spinach or Kale: Adding greens provides nutritional value and vibrant color; toss them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil enhances flavor while providing richness; don’t skimp here!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust to taste after cooking to ensure perfection.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Ingredients: Before you dive into cooking, gather all your ingredients together. Having everything within reach makes cooking smoother and more enjoyable.

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, pour in some olive oil. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and soft—about 3-5 minutes—until they start turning golden.

Add Carrots and Lentils: Stir in diced carrots along with rinsed lentils. Cook for another minute or two while mixing everything together, allowing those colors to brighten before adding liquid.

Pour in Broth: Add vegetable broth to the pot; bring it all to a gentle boil. Lower the heat and simmer uncovered until lentils are tender—this typically takes about 25-30 minutes.

Season with Lemon: Once lentils are cooked through, stir in fresh lemon juice along with salt and pepper to taste. The acidity from the lemon should bring out all those fabulous flavors!

Finish with Greens: Finally, fold in your choice of spinach or kale just before serving. Let them wilt slightly by stirring everything together for an enticing pop of color.

Now you’ve made yourself a delightful bowl of Lemony Lentil Soup! Serve hot with some crusty bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for an added touch! nutritious glow bowl. For more inspiration, check out this lemon blueberry bread recipe recipe.

This recipe not only warms your belly but also brings joy and nourishment into your home—one spoonful at a time!

You Must Know

Lemony Lentil Soup is a delightful dish, packed with nutrients and flavors
The zesty lemon brightens up the earthy lentils, making every spoonful comforting yet refreshing
Perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick healthy meal that warms your heart

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add lentils, broth, and spices. Simmer these ingredients together to let flavors meld beautifully, and finish with a splash of lemon juice for zest.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your Lemony Lentil Soup by adding vegetables like carrots or kale. You can also swap in different spices like cumin or paprika to create a unique flavor profile that excites your taste buds. citrusy orange muffins.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfectly cooked lentils, rinse them well before cooking, removing any debris
Use a mix of vegetable broth and water for extra flavor
Allow the soup to sit for a bit after cooking to enhance all those delicious flavors

Memories flood my mind as I recall making this soup for my sister’s surprise birthday party; her delighted face was priceless when she took her first bite.

FAQ

What makes Lemony Lentil Soup so healthy?

Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is nutritious and satisfying without being heavy.

Can I make Lemony Lentil Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

How long can I freeze Lemony Lentil Soup?

You can freeze it for up to three months in an airtight container without losing flavor or texture.

Pin2

2 Shares