Simple Lentil Soup with Garlic and Herbs

Savor Simple Lentil Soup with Garlic and Herbs, a hearty, healthy dish with earthy lentils and aromatic herbs. This cozy, nutritious soup is perfect for weeknight dinners, delivering comforting flavors with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple Lentil Soup with Garlic and Herbs is a warm, nourishing bowl of goodness that combines protein-packed lentils with the savory depth of garlic and fragrant herbs, creating a wholesome, flavorful meal perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. This budget-friendly, vegetarian recipe is easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and cleanup. Its versatility allows for dietary customizations, making it a family favorite. Packed with fiber, protein, and nutrients, this soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, offering a satisfying, healthy dinner that’s as delicious as it is effortless.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Rinse Lentils: Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove debris and reduce starchiness for a clearer broth.
• Cook Low and Slow: Simmer gently to soften lentils and meld flavors without overcooking.
• Sauté Aromatics First: Cook onions and garlic until fragrant to build a savory base.
• Adjust Consistency: Add more broth for a thinner soup or simmer longer for thickness.
• Taste and Season: Adjust salt and herbs at the end, as lentils absorb flavors.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like parsley just before serving for vibrant flavor.

Yield: 6 Servings

Simple Lentil Soup with Garlic and Herbs

Print

Simple Lentil Soup with Garlic and Herbs, a hearty, healthy dish perfect for cozy, nutritious dinners.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 40 minutes

Additional Time 5 minutes

Total Time 55 minutes

Ingredients

• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• Optional garnish: extra parsley, lemon wedge
• Optional garnish: extra parsley, lemon wedge

Instructions

1. Rinse Lentils: Rinse lentils under cold water to remove debris and excess starch.
2. Prep Veggies: Dice onion, carrots, and celery; mince garlic for a flavorful base.
3. Heat Oil: Warm olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
4. Sauté Aromatics: Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
5. Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
6. Add Lentils and Broth: Pour in lentils, vegetable broth, and thyme; stir to combine.
7. Simmer Soup: Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer; cover and cook for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
8. Check Consistency: Stir and add more broth if too thick; simmer longer if too thin.
9. Season to Taste: Add salt, pepper, and fresh parsley; adjust flavors as needed.
10. Serve with Flair: Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley and a lemon wedge, and enjoy this cozy soup!

Notes

• Rinse lentils to ensure a clear, smooth broth; soaking is optional to reduce cooking time.
• Adjust seasoning at the end, as lentils absorb salt and flavors during cooking.
• Leftovers thicken in the fridge; add broth when reheating to adjust consistency.
• Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or quinoa for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1
Amount Per Serving Calories 114Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 1gUnsaturated Fat 4gSodium 317mgCarbohydrates 15gFiber 4gSugar 4gProtein 4g

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

Did you make this recipe?

Please leave a comment on the blog or share a photo on Pinterest

Ingredients Notes

• Lentils: Green or brown lentils hold their shape well; red lentils create a creamier texture.
• Onion: Yellow onion provides a savory foundation; shallots offer a milder flavor.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds bold aroma; garlic powder can substitute in a pinch.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and texture; baby carrots save prep time.
• Celery: Fresh celery enhances savory depth; ensure freshness for best flavor.
• Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth keeps it vegetarian; chicken broth adds richness for non-vegetarians.
• Thyme: Dried thyme offers earthy warmth; fresh thyme or rosemary can substitute.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous finish; cilantro or dill are alternatives.

Variations and Substitutions

• Lentil Swap: Use red lentils for a creamier soup or black lentils for a firmer texture.
• Veggie Add-Ins: Include spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrition and variety.
• Protein Boost: Add diced chicken, sausage, or tofu for a heartier, non-vegetarian version.
• Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free; ensure broth is gluten-free certified.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or fresh chili for heat.
• Herb Variations: Swap thyme for oregano, bay leaf, or Italian seasoning for different flavors.
• Creamy Version: Stir in coconut milk or cream for a richer, smoother texture.

Storage Options

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days; reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Freezer: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm with a splash of broth to restore consistency; stir well.
• Meal Prep: Portion into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Dish Gallery

Please share this Simple Lentil Soup with Garlic and Herbs with your friends and do a comment below about your feedback.

We will meet you on next article.

Until you can read, Scrambled Egg & Spinach Wrap