Lemony Lentil Soup is a bright and comforting dish, packed with protein-rich lentils and flavored with fresh lemon juice. This hearty yet light soup is perfect for a nourishing meal, with its zesty lemon adding a refreshing twist to the earthy lentils. It’s simple to make and full of nutrients, making it ideal for any season.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1½ cups dried red or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (optional, for added warmth and color)
- 1 large lemon, juiced (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the spices:
- Stir in the cumin, coriander, and turmeric (if using). Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the spices to bloom and become aromatic.
- Add the lentils and broth:
- Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine, bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Season and add lemon juice:
- Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender, but this is optional.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus.
Enjoy this hearty and refreshing Lemony Lentil Soup as a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition! Perfect with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
