Name: Easy Homemade Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; 6 cups vegetable broth; 2 cups kale or spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

A bowl of lentil soup is comfort food at its finest—warm, filling, and packed with wholesome ingredients. This Easy Homemade Lentil Soup takes under an hour to make, yet it tastes like it simmered all day. It’s the kind of cozy, one-pot recipe you’ll turn to again and again during the colder months.

With earthy lentils, sweet carrots, hearty greens, and aromatic herbs, every spoonful is loaded with flavor. It’s naturally vegan, gluten-free, and full of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying meal you can feel great about.

What Kind of Lentils Should I Use?

For this soup, brown or green lentils work best. They hold their shape after cooking and provide that hearty texture you want in a rustic bowl of soup. Red lentils tend to break down more and can make your soup creamier—which is also delicious if that’s the texture you prefer.

Ingredients for the Easy Homemade Lentil Soup

Lentils: The star of the show! They bring earthy flavor and a wonderful creamy-but-firm texture.

Carrots & Celery: These vegetables add natural sweetness and a comforting base.

Onion & Garlic: Essential aromatics that deepen the flavor profile.

Tomato Paste: Adds umami and a rich depth to the broth.

Vegetable Broth: Forms the base of the soup. Choose low-sodium to better control the seasoning.

Bay Leaf & Thyme: These herbs infuse the soup with classic, cozy notes.

Kale or Spinach: Greens stirred in at the end add a nutritious boost and pop of color.

Olive Oil & Seasonings: A touch of oil for sautéing, plus salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes for heat.

How To Make the Easy Homemade Lentil Soup

Step 1: Build the Flavor Base

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté diced onion, carrot, and celery until softened—about 5 minutes. Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.

Step 2: Add Broth and Lentils

Stir in lentils, thyme, bay leaf, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Cover and cook for 30-35 minutes, or until lentils are tender but still hold their shape.

Step 4: Stir in Greens

Add chopped kale or spinach and let them wilt into the hot soup. Season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes to taste.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Serving and Storing This Soulful Lentil Soup

Serve this soup hot with crusty bread, pita, or even a spoonful of yogurt for extra creaminess. It stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What to Serve With Easy Homemade Lentil Soup?

Crusty Artisan Bread

Perfect for dipping and soaking up all that flavorful broth.

Herbed Couscous

A light and fluffy side that complements the hearty lentils.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Classic comfort food pairing—crunchy, cheesy, and so satisfying.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Adds a caramelized veggie contrast to the soup’s softness.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Make a full meal by pairing with protein-packed veggie-stuffed peppers.

Creamy Cucumber Salad

A cooling, crisp side that balances the soup’s warmth.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

Savory and golden, these make a hearty, comforting side.

Want More Soup Ideas to Keep You Cozy?

If this Easy Homemade Lentil Soup warms your heart, you might also fall in love with these comforting bowls:

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Let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use kale or spinach? Did you throw in some sweet potatoes or spice it up with extra chili?

I love seeing how you make these soups your own. If you’ve got a favorite twist, share it!

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting soups and meals on ChefAlchemy’s Pinterest page and discover your next favorite dish!

Easy Homemade Lentil Soup

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegan

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Description

When you need a comforting, nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare and deeply satisfying, this Easy Homemade Lentil Soup is the answer. Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant vegetables, and warming herbs, it delivers a wholesome punch in every spoonful. Perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or cozy dinners, this one-pot wonder checks every box for an easy recipe, quick dinner, healthy soup, or hearty vegetarian meal idea. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or something to serve with crusty bread, this bowl brings big flavor with minimal effort.