Hearty Italian Lentil Soup Recipe

Introduction

Italian Lentil Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any time of year. This simple recipe combines hearty lentils with fresh vegetables, creating a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups tomatoes, chopped or canned
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (optional but recommended)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh herbs like parsley or basil (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the lentils under cold water to remove any debris and set aside.
2. Step 2: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Step 3: Add the tomatoes and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.
4. Step 4: Pour in the lentils and broth, stir to combine, and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Step 5: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 30–40 minutes until the lentils are tender.
6. Step 6: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add fresh herbs if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a richer flavor, use homemade broth or add a splash of red wine while simmering.
• Add diced carrots and celery with the onions for more texture and flavor.
• For a creamier soup, blend half of the soup before serving.
• If you prefer a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Storage

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils for this soup?

Yes, you can use green, brown, or even red lentils. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary, with red lentils cooking faster and becoming softer.

Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?

No, lentils do not require soaking. Just rinse them well before use to remove any impurities.

Hearty Italian Lentil Soup Recipe

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4.8 from 238 reviews

A hearty and nutritious Italian Lentil Soup featuring tender lentils simmered with aromatic onions, garlic, and ripe tomatoes, creating a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any season.

• Author: Ria
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Soup Ingredients

• 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth or water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, thyme)
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 carrot, diced
• Optional: 1 celery stalk, diced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris. Finely chop the onion, mince the garlic, and dice the tomatoes. If using carrot and celery, dice them as well.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Vegetables and Lentils: Stir in the diced tomatoes, carrot, and celery if using, cooking for another 3-4 minutes to soften. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and mix well with the vegetables.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth or water, then add the dried Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened to your preference. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed. If desired, you can blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture or serve it as is. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.

Notes

• Rinse lentils well to avoid grit in the soup.
• Customize the vegetable base by adding celery and carrot for more depth of flavor.
• Use vegetable broth for richer taste, or water for a lighter version.
• This soup freezes well; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while simmering.
• Serve with crusty bread or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if not vegan.

Keywords: Italian lentil soup, lentil soup recipe, vegetarian soup, healthy soup, easy lentil soup