Easy Lentil Soup on a plate

Soups Salads Vegetables · Easy

Easy Lentil Soup

This easy lentil soup is hearty, healthy, and full of warm spices. Made with simple pantry staples, it comes together in about 40 minutes for a filling, budget-friendly meal.

10Prep min
30Cook min
40Total min
  • 2 tablespoonsolive oil
  • 1yellow onion, diced
  • 2carrots, diced
  • 2 stalkscelery, diced
  • 3 clovesgarlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoonground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoonground coriander
  • 1.5 cupsdried green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz)diced tomatoes
  • 6 cupsvegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoonlemon juice
  • to tastesalt and black pepper
  1. 1Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 6-7 minutes until softened.
  2. 2Stir in the garlic, cumin, and coriander, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. 3Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until the lentils are tender.
  4. 4Stir in the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper.
  5. 5For a thicker soup, blend a portion with an immersion blender before serving, if desired.

Make it yours

  • Add chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes.
  • Stir in coconut milk for a creamier, curried version.
  • Top with a dollop of yogurt before serving.

Good with

  • Crusty bread
  • A squeeze of extra lemon
  • A sprinkle of fresh parsley

Good questions, answered.

Do I need to soak lentils before cooking?

No, unlike dried beans, lentils don't require soaking and cook directly in the soup.

Can I freeze lentil soup?

Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months.