Mediterranean Lentil Soup

A hearty and nutritious Mediterranean Lentil Soup, packed with vegetables, herbs, and protein-rich lentils. This flavorful soup is perfect for a cozy dinner or a healthy meal prep option.

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 medium zucchini, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown), rinsed and drained
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of 1 lemon

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, lentils, and broth. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Add the diced zucchini during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
7. Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice before serving.
8. Serve hot, optionally garnished with additional parsley or a dollop of Greek yogurt.

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Tips

• Choose your lentils: Green or brown lentils hold their shape best in soups.
• Add more greens: Stir in fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added nutrients.
• Storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red chili flakes for extra heat.

You can visit our Soups Recipes section for even more delicious recipes.

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FAQ

1. Can I use canned lentils? Yes, reduce the cooking time and add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

2. What can I serve with lentil soup? Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables.

3. Is this soup vegan? Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan when using vegetable broth.

4. How do I reheat frozen soup? Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop over medium heat.