Mediterranean Red Lentil Soup
A delightful and wholesome Mediterranean red lentil soup packed with flavor and nutrition, perfect for chilly evenings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened.
- Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika. Cook for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and the spices are well combined.
- Combine ingredients: Add the red lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the soup: Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
- Season to taste: Once cooked, season the soup with salt and pepper according to your preference.
- Serve and enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside crusty bread for dipping.
Notes
Red lentils break down easily during cooking, giving the soup a creamy texture. Feel free to substitute the vegetable broth with chicken broth for a different flavor, or use water if you’re looking for a lighter option.