Lemony Lentil Soup

Name: Lemony Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 cup green lentils; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons); Zest of 1 lemon; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: May 25, 2025

by Lionel Ramon

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Lemony Lentil Soup is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
The bright flavors create a comforting experience that warms the soul
Its beautiful color and aroma will impress all your guests
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices

I remember one particularly memorable dinner where my youngest declared it “the best soup ever,” while his older sister dramatically swooned over its zestiness. Moments like these remind me that cooking isn’t just about food; it’s about creating memories.

Essential Ingredients

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

Green Lentils: Opt for firm lentils that hold their shape; they’re packed with protein and fiber.
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; dice finely for even cooking.
Carrots: Chop these into small pieces for a pop of color and natural sweetness.
Celery: Use fresh celery stalks for crunch and aromatic depth; they complement the other veggies beautifully.
Garlic: Fresh cloves provide robust flavor; don’t skimp on this fragrant ingredient. add garlic roasted cherry tomatoes.
Lemon Juice and Zest: Freshly squeezed lemon juice elevates the soup with bright acidity; zest enhances that citrusy aroma.
Vegetable Broth: A good quality broth infuses the lentils with rich flavor; homemade is best if you have it!
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness and depth.
Spices (Cumin & Thyme): Cumin adds warmth while thyme brings herby notes; adjust to taste.
Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning; start light and adjust before serving.

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

Let’s Make It Together

Sautéing Aromatics: Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery, stirring until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes should do the trick.

Introducing Garlic and Spices: Toss in minced garlic along with cumin and thyme. Stir until fragrant—this usually takes about 30 seconds—and then try not to eat everything right off the spoon!

Add Lentils and Broth: Pour in rinsed green lentils, followed by vegetable broth. Bring this delightful mixture to a boil before reducing the heat to let it simmer gently.

Lemon Time!: After about 25-30 minutes of simmering (or until lentils are tender), stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest. This will brighten up your soup like sunshine!

Final Seasoning Touches: Taste your creation! Adjust salt and pepper as needed—it’s critical at this stage to make those flavors sing.

Serve Hot!: Ladle your Lemony Lentil Soup into bowls. You can garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika if you’re feeling fancy!

Cooking this Lemony Lentil Soup isn’t just about following steps; it’s an experience filled with vibrant colors, tantalizing aromas, and heartwarming flavors that will leave you smiling long after you’ve enjoyed your meal. enjoy with lemon lavender cookies

So grab your ingredients and let’s create some magic together!

You Must Know

Lemony lentil soup is not just comforting; it’s a flavor explosion
The bright citrus elevates the earthy lentils, making it a winner for any meal
The aroma will have your neighbors wondering what you’re cooking up, so prepare for some food envy!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add carrots and celery. Stir in the lentils and broth next for even cooking and maximum flavor.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out spinach with kale or add a dash of cumin for a warm twist. A sprinkle of fresh herbs at the end brings the dish alive!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water to revive its texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To enhance your lemony lentil soup, use vegetable broth instead of water for more flavor
Don’t skip sautéing the veggies first; it builds depth in every spoonful
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving brightens everything up!

Sometimes, I whip up this soup after a long week; my friends rave about how it warms their souls—who knew lentils could do that?

FAQ

Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?

Yes, just soak them overnight and adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I serve with lemony lentil soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh salad. pair it with creamy ravioli soup. For more inspiration, check out this refreshing cucumber salad recipe.

Is this soup vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s packed with plant-based goodness and tons of flavors.

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