Description
A hearty and nutritious lentil soup with vibrant greens and a splash of lemon.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch Swiss chard or kale, chopped (about 2 cups)
- Juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup), plus more to taste
Instructions
- Start with the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add Vegetables and Spices: Toss in the chopped carrots and potatoes. Let them cook with the onions for 3–4 minutes, just enough to start softening. Sprinkle in the cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper, stirring well to coat the vegetables.
- Simmer the Lentils: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot along with the broth or water. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the Greens: Once everything is soft and cooked, add your chopped Swiss chard or kale. Let it simmer for another 5–7 minutes, until the greens are wilted and tender.
- Finish with Lemon: Turn off the heat and squeeze in the lemon juice. Stir well and taste—add more lemon, salt, or pepper if needed. The lemon is what gives this soup its signature brightness, so don’t be shy with it.
- Serve and Enjoy: Ladle into bowls and serve hot with warm pita bread or a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top. Some people love adding a dash of crushed red pepper for a little kick.
Notes
- This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 14g
- Cholesterol: 0mg