Easy Red Lentil Soup: A Comforting and Nutritious Delight

Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, Easy Red Lentil Soup is the ultimate comfort food that’s both simple to prepare and packed with nutrition. Imagine sitting down to a steaming bowl of soup after a long day—its rich aroma filling the air, every spoonful warming your soul. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this recipe makes it possible to create that perfect moment in your kitchen.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare Easy Red Lentil Soup with step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, and even a few variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned pro, this is one dish you’ll want to keep in your recipe rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Red Lentil Soup

• Quick and Simple: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable, everyday ingredients.
• Nutrient-Rich: High in protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Versatile: Customize it to your liking with optional garnishes or added veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious soup:

Ingredient	Quantity
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Yellow onion (diced)	1 medium (about 1 1/2 cups)
Carrots (peeled and diced)	2 medium (about 1 cup)
Celery (diced)	2 medium stalks (about 3/4 cup)
Garlic (minced)	3 cloves
Tomato paste	1 tablespoon
Kosher salt	2 teaspoons, plus more as needed
Ground cumin	2 teaspoons
Smoked paprika	1 1/2 teaspoons
Black pepper (freshly ground)	1/4 teaspoon
Low-sodium broth (chicken or vegetable)	6 cups
Dried red lentils	1 1/2 cups
Fresh parsley (optional)	For garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start with a Flavorful Base

Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat until shimmering. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook while stirring occasionally until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. Add Aromatics and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, kosher salt, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes, letting the spices bloom and the tomato paste darken in color.

3. Incorporate Broth and Lentils

Pour in the broth and add the dried red lentils. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a simmer.

4. Simmer Until Tender

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender directly in the pot to partially or fully blend the soup. Alternatively, transfer some or all of the soup to a blender, blend until your desired consistency is reached, and return it to the pot.

6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.

7. Garnish and Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Red Lentil Soup

Choosing the Right Lentils

• Red lentils cook quickly and break down easily, making them ideal for creamy soups.
• Rinse the lentils thoroughly to remove any debris or excess starch before adding them to the pot.

Customize the Flavor

• Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
• Include a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for a burst of brightness.
• Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added greens.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (1 cup)
Calories	~180
Protein	12g
Carbohydrates	25g
Fiber	8g
Fat	5g
Sodium	~400mg

FAQs About Easy Red Lentil Soup

1. Can I use a different type of lentil?

Yes, but keep in mind that other lentils (like green or brown) take longer to cook and won’t break down as much, resulting in a chunkier texture.

2. How do I make this soup vegan?

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and the recipe is naturally vegan.

3. Can I freeze this soup?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. What pairs well with red lentil soup?

Crusty bread, pita, or a fresh side salad are excellent companions.

5. How can I thicken the soup without blending?

Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to let some of the liquid evaporate.

6. Can I double the recipe?

Yes! This recipe scales easily. Just ensure your pot is large enough to accommodate the increased volume.

Conclusion: Make It Tonight!

Now that you know how to make this Easy Red Lentil Soup, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking. Perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or meal prep, this soup is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ready to experience the ultimate comfort food? Whip up this red lentil soup tonight and share the warmth with your loved ones.

Print