Red Lentil and Spinach Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Red Lentil and Spinach Soup is incredibly satisfying and full of nutrients. It’s rich in plant-based protein and fiber thanks to the red lentils, while the spinach brings in a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. The combination of spices adds layers of depth and warmth, making this soup comforting without being too heavy. Best of all, it’s easy to make and can be prepared in a single pot, saving time on both cooking and cleaning.

Ingredients

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed

• 4 cups vegetable broth (or water)

• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 medium carrot, diced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon turmeric

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Lemon juice (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, and carrot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.

2. Stir in the cumin, turmeric, coriander, and ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant.

3. Add the red lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth (or water). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.

4. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the spinach has wilted and everything is well combined.

5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a squeeze of lemon juice for a burst of freshness.

6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: To make the soup heartier, add cooked chicken, tofu, or chickpeas.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sliced jalapeño for some heat.

• Creamy Soup: For a creamier texture, blend the soup partially or fully, or stir in some coconut milk or heavy cream at the end.

• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, celery, or sweet potatoes for added variety.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a little water or broth when reheating.

• Freezing: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, reheat on the stovetop, adding extra liquid if necessary.

• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if the soup has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use dried lentils instead of red lentils?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Dried lentils take longer to cook and may need more liquid.

2. Can I make this soup without vegetable broth?

Yes, you can use water or chicken broth as a substitute. However, vegetable broth adds more flavor to the soup.

3. Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this Red Lentil and Spinach Soup is naturally vegan, provided you use vegetable broth and don’t add any dairy.

4. Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and freezing it for up to 3 months.

5. How can I make the soup spicier?

You can add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a chopped jalapeño to the soup for a spicy kick.

6. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, sweet potatoes, or peas for added flavor and texture.

7. How do I store leftovers?

Store the leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

8. Can I make this soup creamy?

Yes, you can blend part or all of the soup to make it creamy, or stir in some coconut milk or cream at the end.

9. How do I reheat the soup?

To reheat, warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add more broth or water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

10. Can I add protein to this soup?

Yes, you can add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or tofu to make the soup more filling.

Conclusion

Red Lentil and Spinach Soup is the perfect blend of comfort, nutrition, and flavor. It’s easy to make, adaptable to different diets, and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or packing it for lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.