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Hearty Classic Lentil Soup for Easy Weeknight Dinner

A comforting and nutritious lentil soup made with vegetables, herbs, and pantry staples, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American, Comfort Food
Calories: 230
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 2 carrots sliced
  • 2 stalks celery chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1.5 cups dry lentils rinsed
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Wooden spoon
  • Cutting board
  • Chef's knife

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
  4. Add lentils, tomatoes, broth, bay leaves, cumin, and thyme.
  5. Season with salt and pepper and stir well.
  6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
  7. Cook until lentils are tender, about 30–35 minutes.
  8. Remove bay leaves and adjust seasoning.
  9. Serve hot with fresh parsley.

Notes

Soup thickens as it sits; add broth when reheating.