Dinner

Mediterranean Lentil Soup Recipe

Name: Mediterranean Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional); Juice of 1 lemon; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp ground coriander; ½ tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 bay leaf; Olive oil (for sautéing and optional drizzle); 1 ½ cups brown or green lentils (rinsed); 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth); 1 can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped)

Bymia larkspur January 28, 2026January 28, 2026

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Introduction

Mediterranean Lentil Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for cozy meals. Packed with vegetables, spices, and tender lentils, it’s both nourishing and easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp ground coriander
½ tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1 ½ cups brown or green lentils (rinsed)
6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 bay leaf
1 can diced tomatoes (or 2 fresh, chopped)
2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Juice of 1 lemon
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
Step 4: Simmer the soup for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Step 5: Stir in the fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted. Add the lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Remove the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped parsley, and drizzle with olive oil if desired before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the greens.
Swap kale with Swiss chard or collard greens if preferred.
Use smoked sausage or cooked chicken for extra protein.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened.

How to Serve

The image shows a bowl filled with lentil soup containing layers of various ingredients including green lentils, bright orange carrot pieces, light green celery chunks, and small bits of fresh green herbs floating on top, all visible in a warm, slightly thick broth with black pepper specks. The soup sits in a round white bowl with a brown rim placed on a white marbled surface. Next to the bowl, there is a metal spoon and some fresh green parsley leaves scattered around, with a piece of bread partially visible in the background. A soft-textured cream cloth is draped beside the bowl adding a cozy feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils in this soup?

Red lentils cook faster and tend to break down more, resulting in a softer soup. You can use them, but reduce simmering time and expect a different texture.