Description
A nutritious and hearty lentil soup bursting with Mediterranean flavors, perfect for a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp ground coriander
- ½ tsp turmeric
- ½ tsp paprika
- Pinch of red-pepper flakes (optional)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes (or tomato paste for thicker texture)
- 1 lemon, juiced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and garlic for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add carrots and celery, cooking for 3 minutes more.
- Stir in cumin, coriander, turmeric, paprika, and optional red-pepper flakes.
- Add lentils, vegetable broth, and crushed tomatoes.
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
- Drizzle with olive oil and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
Rinse and soak lentils for faster cooking. Adjust spice levels according to preference. This soup can be made ahead for better flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean