Name: Best Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil; 1 medium yellow or white onion, chopped; 2 carrots, peeled and chopped; 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced; 2 teaspoons ground cumin; 1 teaspoon curry powder; ½ teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste; Pinch of red pepper flakes; Freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, lightly drained; 1 cup brown or green lentils, picked over and rinsed; 4 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups water; 1 cup chopped fresh collard greens or kale, tough ribs removed; 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (½ to 1 medium lemon), to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 15 reviews

If you’ve been searching high and low for a hearty, comforting bowl that’s packed with flavor and nutrition, look no further than this Best Lentil Soup Recipe. It’s incredibly easy to make using simple pantry staples, yet it offers a wonderful depth of taste with a touch of warmth from spices like cumin and curry powder. Each spoonful feels like a warm hug, bringing together tender lentils, bright tomatoes, and vibrant greens, making it an ideal meal to cozy up with any time of year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A top view of a wooden round board showing fresh ingredients arranged neatly: two halves of a white onion sit on opposite sides, a small white bowl filled with dry lentils and a spoon rests at the top right, a blue and white patterned small bowl with green dried herbs and spices placed near the center, three large green leafy kale stalks are laid horizontally alongside two whole orange carrots. Nearby, a white bowl filled with red chopped tomatoes is placed on the white marbled surface. A half lemon and a garlic bulb with various cloves are also visible on the marble background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients together for this soup is delightfully straightforward, and each one plays a special role in building the amazing flavor, texture, and color that make this soup unforgettable.

Extra virgin olive oil: Adds luxurious richness and a smooth mouthfeel that balances the earthiness of the lentils.
Yellow or white onion: Provides a sweet, aromatic base that softens and deepens during cooking.
Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and a subtle crunch that complements the tender lentils.
Garlic cloves: Deliver fragrant warmth and a slight pungency that elevates every bite.
Ground cumin: Offers a smoky, earthy warmth that’s key to the soup’s character.
Curry powder: Adds a subtle spicy complexity without overpowering the other flavors.
Dried thyme: Provides a gentle herbaceous note that rounds out the seasoning.
28-ounce can diced tomatoes: Give body, acidity, and vibrant color that brighten the soup.
Brown or green lentils: The star ingredient, lending protein, creaminess, and satisfying texture.
Vegetable broth: Creates a savory foundation that brings all the ingredients together beautifully.
Water: Balances the broth for the perfect consistency and lightness.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, crucial for bringing out the soup’s full potential.
Red pepper flakes: Add a gentle kick of heat to keep things lively and exciting.
Freshly ground black pepper: Delivers sharp, aromatic warmth with every bite.
Chopped collard greens or kale: Introduce color, nutrients, and a tender, leafy texture to the soup.
Lemon juice: Provides a bright, zesty finish that balances the earthiness and spices perfectly.

How to Make Best Lentil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Warm the Olive Oil and Sauté Vegetables

Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. While a quarter cup sounds generous, this amount brings a silky richness that makes the soup so satisfying. Add the chopped onions and carrots, cooking gently until the onions turn translucent and sweet, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavorful base you’ll taste through every spoonful.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, stir in the minced garlic, cumin, curry powder, and dried thyme. Let these cook just until fragrant — about 30 seconds — constantly stirring so nothing burns. This quick burst of heat unlocks the spices’ magic, creating warm aromatic layers that define this soup’s soul.

Step 3: Incorporate Tomatoes

Pour in the diced tomatoes, draining them lightly first to avoid too much liquid. Cooking them for a few minutes with the spices helps to intensify their bright, tangy flavor. This step infuses the soup with a natural sweetness and a vibrant red hue that makes it look as good as it tastes.

Step 4: Simmer with Lentils and Broth

Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and water to the pot. Season with salt, red pepper flakes, and plenty of freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer with the pot partially covered. Let everything cook together for 25–30 minutes until the lentils are tender but still hold their shape, giving the soup structure and creaminess.

Step 5: Blend Part of the Soup

To achieve a perfect balance of texture, transfer about 2 cups of the soup to a blender and purée until smooth. Be careful to cover the lid with a towel to avoid steam splatters. Pour the blended portion back into the pot, creating a luscious mix of smooth and hearty lentils that makes each spoonful a delight. Alternatively, an immersion blender works wonderfully here.

Step 6: Add Greens and Finish with Lemon

Stir in the chopped collard greens or kale and cook for another 5 minutes until softened but still vibrantly green. Remove from heat and add lemon juice, starting with one tablespoon and adjusting to taste. This final touch enlivens the entire soup with brightness and balance, encouraging you to taste and tweak seasoning until everything sings together perfectly.

How to Serve Best Lentil Soup Recipe

A large white pot filled with thick orange soup with visible pieces of red tomatoes, small orange chunks, and dark green leafy bits mixed throughout, giving a rich texture with some bubbles on the surface. A wooden spoon with a deep bowl is partially submerged in the soup, resting near the center right of the pot. The pot sits on a white marbled surface that shows subtle grey veins. The rim of the pot has some orange soup stains, adding to the homemade feel. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishing your soup can elevate it from good to unforgettable. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and fresh fragrance, while a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil lends silkiness. For a touch of creaminess, a dollop of vegan yogurt or tahini brightens the flavor profile and adds richness.

Side Dishes

Best Lentil Soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm pita for dipping. If you want to keep it light, a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette complements the soup’s warmth beautifully. For heartier meals, try serving alongside roasted vegetables or a grain like quinoa or couscous to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this soup in deep, rustic bowls for an inviting, homey vibe. For entertaining, consider topping each bowl with toasted nuts or seeds for crunch. Or turn it into a vibrant lunch by adding a spoonful to a grain bowl packed with fresh veggies and a drizzle of tahini or hot sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This lentil soup keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and prevent it from absorbing other odors. It tastes even better the next day as the spices meld, making it a perfect choice for meal prep.

Freezing

The Best Lentil Soup Recipe is an excellent freezer-friendly dish. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. You can keep it frozen for several months without loss of flavor or texture, making it a reliable go-to for busy weeks when you crave a nourishing meal.

Reheating

Reheat your soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through to heat evenly. Finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the warmth once heated through.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of brown or green lentils?

Yes, red lentils cook faster and tend to become mushier, which will result in a creamier soup. If you prefer a soup with more texture, stick to brown or green lentils as in the recipe.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in the Best Lentil Soup Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a safe and hearty option for anyone with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make this soup without an immersion blender or regular blender?

Yes, you can skip blending if you prefer a chunkier soup. The texture will be different but still delicious. Just keep in mind blending adds a lovely creaminess that many people love.

How spicy is this soup?

The spice level is mild by default but easily adjusted to your taste. Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or omit them if you prefer a milder soup.

What can I substitute for collard greens or kale?

Spinach, Swiss chard, or even beet greens are great alternatives. Add them at the same stage to allow them to soften and blend well into the soup.

Final Thoughts

This Best Lentil Soup Recipe is truly one of those kitchen treasures you’ll keep coming back to. It’s simple, wholesome, and bursting with layered flavors that warm you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, giving this recipe a try will reward you with a delicious bowl of comfort and nourishment. Grab your pot and dive in — your new favorite soup is waiting!