I love making this Healing Golden Lemon Lentil Soup when I want something nourishing, cozy, and full of vibrant flavor. The combination of tender lentils, warming spices, and bright lemon creates a comforting bowl that feels both soothing and energizing at the same time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this soup is hearty yet light. The lentils make it filling and satisfying, while the lemon keeps everything fresh and balanced.
I also appreciate how simple and wholesome the ingredients are. I can prepare it with pantry staples, and it always feels like a nourishing reset meal.
I find this soup perfect for meal prep because the flavors deepen beautifully as it sits. It’s also naturally vegetarian and easy to adapt for different dietary needs.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground coriander
¼ teaspoon black pepper
Salt to taste
6 cups vegetable broth
Juice of 1 to 2 lemons
1 cup fresh spinach or kale, chopped
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes
Directions
I start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. I sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften.
I add the garlic, turmeric, cumin, coriander, black pepper, and salt. I cook everything for about 30 seconds until fragrant, allowing the spices to bloom.
I stir in the rinsed red lentils and pour in the vegetable broth. I bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and beginning to break down.
If I prefer a creamier texture, I use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup while leaving some texture.
I stir in the lemon juice and fresh spinach or kale, allowing the greens to wilt for a few minutes. I taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Before serving, I sprinkle fresh parsley on top and add red pepper flakes if I want a little heat.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 4 to 6 servings from this recipe.
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 25–30 minutes
Total time: About 40–45 minutes
Variations
I sometimes add a small diced potato for extra heartiness. When I want a richer flavor, I stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end.
I also enjoy adding fresh grated ginger along with the garlic for an extra warming touch. For added protein and texture, I mix in cooked quinoa or chickpeas.
If I prefer a smoother soup, I blend it completely for a velvety finish.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
When reheating, I warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much. I sometimes squeeze in a bit more lemon juice to refresh the flavors.
This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. I let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers and thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use green or brown lentils instead of red lentils?
Yes, I can, but they will take longer to cook and won’t break down as much. The texture will be slightly chunkier.
Is this soup good for meal prep?
Absolutely. I find that the flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, as written, it’s already vegan when I use vegetable broth.
How do I make the soup thicker?
I blend part or all of the soup, or let it simmer a bit longer to reduce and thicken naturally.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Yes, I sometimes add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or even tofu for extra protein.
Conclusion
I love how this Healing Golden Lemon Lentil Soup brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels deeply comforting and restorative. The warmth of the spices and the brightness of lemon create a perfect balance in every spoonful. Whenever I want something wholesome, cozy, and satisfying, this soup is one I always return to.
