Mediterranean Lentil Soup Recipe
This Mediterranean Lentil Soup Recipe is warm, healthy and full of flavor. It is simple to make at home. The soup uses basic pantry ingredients and fresh vegetables. Every bowl feels comforting and light at the same time. Many people love this soup for busy days.
Ingredients
- Dry brown or green lentils
- Olive oil
- Onion
- Garlic cloves
- Carrots
- Celery
- Canned diced tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Vegetable broth
- Bay leaf
- Ground cumin
- Ground coriander
- Paprika
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley
These are the main ingredients for Mediterranean Lentil Soup. They are easy to find and budget friendly.
Instructions
Rinse the Lentils
- Rinse lentils under cold water. Remove any small stones. Set lentils aside to drain fully.
Chop the Vegetables
- Chop onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces. Mince garlic cloves finely for best flavor.
Heat the Oil
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Do not let the oil smoke.
Cook Onion and Garlic
- Add onion and garlic to the pot. Cook until soft and fragrant. Stir often to avoid burning.
Add Carrots and Celery
- Add carrots and celery. Cook for five minutes. Vegetables should soften slightly.
Add Tomato Paste and Spices
- Stir in tomato paste, cumin, coriander, paprika, and oregano. Cook one minute to release aromas.
Add Lentils and Tomatoes
- Add lentils and diced tomatoes. Stir well so everything mixes evenly.
Pour in Broth
- Pour vegetable broth into the pot. Add bay leaf. Stir gently.
Bring to a Boil
- Bring soup to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low after boiling.
Simmer the Soup
- Cover the pot partially. Simmer for thirty minutes. Lentils should become tender.
Season the Soup
- Add salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add Lemon Juice
- Turn off heat. Add fresh lemon juice. Stir well for a bright flavor.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
- Use green lentils for a firmer texture.
- Brown lentils give a softer, creamier soup.
- Add spinach at the end for extra nutrients.
- Use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth if preferred.
- Add chili flakes for gentle heat.
- Blend part of the soup for thicker texture.
- Always add lemon juice after cooking.