Name: Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 25 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained; 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium); 1 cup water; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups fresh spinach (optional); Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)

Dive into a bowl of Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup, a nourishing and flavor-packed dish perfect for busy days. Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices, this slow-cooker recipe is a no-fuss, wholesome meal. Perfect for meal prep, it offers a comforting and hearty option for lunch or dinner.

Recipe Tips and Tricks:

Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove debris and ensure they cook evenly.
Cut vegetables uniformly to ensure even cooking.
Add delicate greens like spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes to retain their color and texture.
If the soup becomes too thick, add more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup is a winner because it’s healthy, easy, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a one-pot meal made effortlessly in your crockpot, so you can set it and forget it. The combination of earthy lentils, nutrient-rich vegetables, and warming spices delivers a comforting flavor that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re looking for a meatless Monday recipe or just want to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this soup is a fantastic option. Bonus: It’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and adaptable to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

Yield: Serves 6

Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup

A hearty, comforting vegetable lentil soup loaded with vibrant flavors, made effortlessly in your crockpot for healthy, stress-free meals.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 6 hours

Additional Time 10 minutes

Total Time 6 hours 25 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium)
1 cup water
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp ground cumin
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional, for brightness)

Instructions

Prepare Your Ingredients: Rinse the lentils and dice your vegetables to roughly the same size for even cooking.
Layer in Crockpot: Add the lentils, broth, water, diced tomatoes (with juice), onion, carrots, celery, garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, cumin, and bay leaf to the crockpot. Give it a gentle stir.
Cook: Set your crockpot to low and cook for 6 hours (or high for 4 hours). Your house will smell amazing!
Add Spinach: In the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in the spinach to wilt it. Squeeze in the lemon juice for brightness if desired.
Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and enjoy!

Notes

For extra creaminess, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some texture intact.

Nutrition Information

Yield

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 96Total Fat 1gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 0gCholesterol 0mgSodium 550mgCarbohydrates 19gFiber 4gSugar 8gProtein 5g

The recipes and nutritional information on Yum Tonight are for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice.

Ingredients Notes:

Lentils: Use green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid red lentils, which may become mushy.
Vegetables: Carrots, celery, and onions are the base trio, but feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or sweet potatoes for added nutrition.
Seasonings: Garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika enhance the flavor. Adjust the spices based on your preference.
Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) add a tangy richness. Choose fire-roasted for extra depth of flavor.
Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or chicken broth for added richness. Opt for low-sodium to control salt.

Variations and Substitutions:

Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken or turkey for extra protein.
Grains: Stir in cooked quinoa, barley, or rice for a heartier dish.
Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.
Spices: For a spicier kick, add cayenne or red pepper flakes.
Vegetables: Swap out or add veggies based on the season—think squash, green beans, or bell peppers.
Vegan Option: Ensure your broth and other ingredients are fully plant-based.

Storage Options:

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.