Name: Classic Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: PT-490054H57M54S
Cuisine: Comfort / Vegetarian‑Friendly
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 stalks celery, chopped; 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 1 can (14–16 oz) crushed tomatoes or 1‑2 Tbsp tomato paste; 4‑6 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; Optional garnish: fresh parsley and/or a squeeze of lemon juice

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Classic Lentil Soup is one of my favorite comforting meals—wholesome, hearty, and deeply satisfying. It’s made with simple ingredients that come together to create a rich, nourishing bowl perfect for chilly days or anytime I want something filling yet healthy. With its earthy flavor and cozy texture, this soup never fails to warm me up from the inside out.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s budget-friendly, naturally gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein. It’s full of fiber-rich lentils, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs and spices. It’s also incredibly easy to prepare in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. Whether I’m feeding a crowd or meal-prepping for the week, this soup always hits the mark. Classic Lentil Soup

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil
Onion (diced)
Garlic (minced)
Carrots (sliced)
Celery (chopped)
Dried brown or green lentils (rinsed)
Crushed tomatoes (or tomato paste for a richer flavor)
Vegetable or chicken broth
Bay leaf
Ground cumin
Dried thyme or oregano
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or lemon juice (optional, for garnish and brightness)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté onion, carrot, and celery until softened.
I stir in the garlic, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
I add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, and broth to the pot, then toss in a bay leaf.
I bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
I remove the bay leaf, then blend part of the soup with an immersion blender to thicken it slightly (optional).
I finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: Around 45 minutes

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped spinach or kale near the end of cooking for extra greens. For a spicier version, I stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne. I’ve also swapped in red lentils for a quicker-cooking version or added potatoes or sweet potatoes for more heartiness.

storage/reheating

I store the soup in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. When reheating, I warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much. Classic Lentil Soup

FAQs

What type of lentils should I use?

I usually go with brown or green lentils—they hold their shape well and give the soup a hearty texture. Red lentils cook faster and create a creamier soup.

Do I need to soak the lentils?

No. Lentils cook quickly and don’t need soaking. I just rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. I add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Is this soup vegan?

It is if I use vegetable broth. Everything else is plant-based and naturally dairy- and gluten-free.

Can I blend the whole soup?

Yes. If I want a completely smooth texture, I blend the entire batch. I prefer to blend just a portion to keep some texture in each spoonful.

Conclusion

Classic Lentil Soup is one of my favorite staples for a reason—it’s simple, nourishing, and packed with flavor. Whether I’m making a cozy dinner or preparing a week’s worth of lunches, this soup always delivers warmth and satisfaction. With just a few pantry staples, I can enjoy a bowl full of comfort and goodness anytime.