Description
This hearty and nutritious Lemony Lentil Soup is the perfect weeknight comfort food. Packed with protein-rich lentils, aromatic vegetables, and a bright, zesty lemon finish, this soup is both deeply satisfying and simple to prepare. It is a naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and wholesome dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Easily customizable with smoked chicken or served as is, it is a versatile, foolproof meal for busy families seeking a healthy, flavorful dinner in under an hour.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 large carrots, chopped
1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
6 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
2 cups fresh baby spinach
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: 1 cup diced smoked chicken strips
Instructions
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and carrots, cooking for about 5 minutes until onion is translucent.
Stir in garlic and cumin, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot.
Increase heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer.
Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender.
Stir in the optional smoked chicken strips if using, allowing them to warm through.
Remove the pot from the heat.
Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and baby spinach until the spinach is wilted.
Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Notes
Storage: Keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; add a splash of water or broth when reheating if it thickens. Freezing: Stores well in individual portions for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg