Hearty Mediterranean Lentil Soup Recipe
This hearty Mediterranean lentil soup is packed with vegetables and spices, making it a nutritious and flavorful dish. It's easy to prepare and perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils thoroughly rinsed and drained
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 large carrot peeled and diced
- 1 stalk celery diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 medium zucchini diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes including their juices
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley finely chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrot, celery, and red bell pepper; sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Incorporate the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, oregano, and thyme; stir to combine.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover; simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Add the diced zucchini during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste; add more broth or water for a thinner consistency if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
Notes
Serve with a lemon wedge for added flavor.