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Mediterranean Lentil Soup Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 64 reviews

A hearty and flavorful Mediterranean Lentil Soup that combines tender lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh vegetables for a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for any day.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 2 carrots (peeled and diced)
  • 1 rib celery (diced)
  • 1 onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp minced parsley (optional for garnish)

Spices and Seasonings

  • 1 3/4 tsp salt (divided)
  • 1 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp coriander
  • 1/2 tsp chili flakes
  • 3 Bay leaves
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice

Other Ingredients

  • 4 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 9 cups water
  • 1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils (rinsed)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced carrots, celery, onion, and 1 tsp of salt. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the onions become translucent and the vegetables start to soften.
  2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, and chili flakes. Sauté for an additional 2 minutes until the tomato paste caramelizes into a deep red color and the spices release their fragrance.
  3. Simmer Lentils: Pour in the 9 cups of water, add the rinsed lentils, bay leaves, and the remaining 3/4 tsp of salt. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
  4. Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves from the soup. Stir in the lemon juice and the remaining 2 tbsp of olive oil for added richness and brightness. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with minced parsley if desired.

Notes

  • Rinsing lentils before cooking removes any dust or impurities and helps improve texture.
  • You can adjust the chili flakes to your preferred spice level or omit them for a milder soup.
  • The lemon juice added at the end brightens the soup and balances the flavors.
  • For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup or use an immersion blender before serving.

Keywords: Mediterranean, lentil soup, vegetarian, healthy soup, easy soup recipe, cumin, coriander, tomato paste, hearty soup

Find it online: https://dinewithdylan.com/mediterranean-lentil-soup-recipe/