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Red Lentil Soup Recipe
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Red Lentil Soup Recipe

Red lentil soup is a hearty, protein-rich, and comforting dish with a creamy texture. This easy-to-make soup is packed with warm spices, vegetables, and wholesome lentils, making it perfect for a nutritious meal. It's budget-friendly, vegan, and great for meal prep.
Prep Time10 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Greek, Lebanese, Mediterranean, Turkish
Keyword: Red Lentil Soup Recipe
Servings: 1
Calories: 300kcal
Cost: $2–$3

Ingredients

  • 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Notes

Cooking Steps:

  1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until softened.
  2. Stir in garlic, carrots, cumin, turmeric, and paprika. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Add red lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are soft.
  4. Blend with an immersion blender for a creamy texture or leave chunky for a more rustic soup.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir in lemon juice for added freshness.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.