Lentil soup with carrots and celery is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine the rich aroma filling your kitchen, with earthy lentils mingling with sweet, tender carrots and crisp celery. Each spoonful brings comfort, flavor, and nutrition that can turn even the gloomiest of days into something special.
Think of this dish as your go-to solution for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. It’s not just food; it’s a memory maker! Picture yourself gathered around the table with loved ones, laughter filling the air as bowls of vibrant soup are shared, each bite warming hearts and stomachs alike.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This lentil soup with carrots and celery is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for busy schedules
- The delightful blend of flavors creates a satisfying bowl that pleases every palate
- Its colorful ingredients offer visual appeal, brightening any dining experience
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to be enjoyed at any time of year or occasion!
Sharing this recipe always brings smiles. My friends rave about how delicious it is, and my kids can’t get enough of it—perfect for sneaking in those veggies!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green Lentils: I prefer green lentils for their firm texture and ability to hold shape during cooking.
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Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots add sweetness and color; pick ones that are firm and blemish-free.
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Celery: Crisp celery gives a lovely crunch; choose stalks that are bright green for maximum flavor.
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Onion: A good onion adds depth; opt for yellow onions as they balance sweetness and sharpness beautifully.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate flavor; don’t be shy—use as much as you like!
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Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while still enjoying robust flavors.
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Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil adds richness; opt for extra virgin for the best taste.
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Bay Leaves: Adding bay leaves enhances the soup’s aroma; remember to remove them before serving!
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Spices (Cumin, Paprika): These spices add warmth and earthiness; feel free to adjust based on your preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by washing your vegetables thoroughly. Chop the onions, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces while enjoying their fresh scents wafting around the kitchen.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic until they turn translucent and release their mouthwatering aroma—around 5 minutes should do it!
Add Carrots and Celery: Toss in those beautiful carrot rounds and celery pieces. Sauté them together until slightly softened—about 3 minutes will help those flavors meld perfectly.
Add Lentils and Spices: Stir in the rinsed lentils along with cumin and paprika. Let everything mingle in the pot for about 1 minute so those spices bloom beautifully!
Pour in Broth & Simmer: Add vegetable broth and bay leaves to your pot. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low; let it simmer gently for about 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
Final Touches & Serve!: Once cooked, season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves before serving up this delicious lentil soup with carrots and celery! Enjoy hot with crusty bread on the side!
Now you’re armed with all you need to create this heartwarming dish! Enjoy every spoonful of your homemade masterpiece—it’s truly something special!
You Must Know
- Lentil soup with carrots and celery is a comforting dish that’s easy to customize
- The vibrant colors and hearty texture make it visually appealing, while the aroma during cooking will have everyone asking, “What’s for dinner?” It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy evening in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best flavors, sauté onions and garlic first, then add lentils, carrots, and celery. Stir them for a few minutes before adding broth, ensuring everything melds beautifully.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap lentils for chickpeas or add spices like cumin or turmeric for extra flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley can also elevate your soup’s freshness.
Storing & Reheating
Store your lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance your lentil soup with carrots and celery, soak lentils overnight to speed up cooking time
- Always use fresh vegetables for maximum flavor, and taste frequently while simmering to adjust seasonings as needed
Cooking this lentil soup reminds me of my grandmother’s kitchen filled with laughter and warmth; her secret ingredient was always love!
FAQ
Can I freeze lentil soup with carrots and celery?
Yes, this soup freezes well; just store it in airtight containers.
How long does lentil soup last in the fridge?
Lentil soup can last up to five days when stored properly in the fridge.
What type of lentils should I use?
Brown or green lentils work best; they hold their shape during cooking.
Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Lentil soup with carrots and celery is a nourishing and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days. This hearty soup combines earthy lentils, sweet carrots, and crunchy celery, creating a delightful blend of flavors in every spoonful. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. Gather around the table with loved ones and enjoy this vibrant soup that warms both hearts and stomachs.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green lentils
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by washing all vegetables thoroughly. Chop onions, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic; sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Add diced carrots and celery; sauté for an additional 3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Stir in rinsed lentils along with cumin and paprika; cook for about 1 minute to release spices' aroma.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving; remove bay leaves.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
