This Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup is a nourishing, protein-rich dish made with wholesome ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and aromatic spices. Perfect for meal prep, this comforting soup is easy to make, full of flavor, and naturally gluten-free!
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 35 minutes mins
45 minutes mins
Course Soup
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4
Calories 300 kcal
- 1 cup 200g dried lentils (green, brown, or red)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 celery stalks diced
- 1 can 14 oz / 400g diced tomatoes
- 4 cups 1L vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp turmeric optional
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 1-2 tbsp lemon juice for brightness
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 2 minutes.
Step 2: Add the Spices & Lentils
Add the cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the vegetables.
Rinse the lentils, then add them to the pot along with the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf.
Step 3: Simmer Until Tender
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally.
Step 4: Finish & Serve
Stir in lemon juice for added freshness. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
- For a thicker soup, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender.
- Want extra protein? Add chickpeas or tofu cubes.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
This vegan lentil soup is hearty, filling, and packed with nutrients—a perfect meal for any season! 🥣✨
Keyword easy plant-based soup, healthy lentil soup, Mediterranean lentil soup, one-pot vegan meal, protein-packed soup, vegan lentil soup