As a food enthusiast and a lover of comfort foods, I have to say this Lentil Soup with Spinach and Tomatoes has quickly become a staple in my household. The way the earthy lentils harmonize with the bright acidity of the tomatoes and the fresh, slightly bitter notes of spinach is nothing short of delightful. Each spoonful offers a warm hug, perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nourishing meal after a hectic day. My family, ever the soup aficionados, gave it an enthusiastic thumbs up, noting how the flavors meld together beautifully without overpowering each other. The soup’s simple preparation and wholesome ingredients make it not only a favorite but also a go-to for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
This recipe calls for ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge, making it both convenient and budget-friendly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup of green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks of celery, diced
- 2 cups of fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 6 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of half a lemon (optional)
Instructions
Making this lentil soup is as simple as it is satisfying. Follow these steps to create a hearty and delicious meal:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
- Stir in the spinach and let it wilt for about 3-5 minutes. For a burst of freshness, add the lemon juice before serving.
Nutrition Facts
This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here are the nutrition facts for this recipe:
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: 180
Preparation Time
One of the best things about this lentil soup is how quickly it comes together without compromising on flavor. Here’s a breakdown of the preparation time:
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 50 minutes
How to Serve
This soup is versatile and can be served in several delightful ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with a dollop of plain yogurt or sour cream for added creaminess.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
- Pair with a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- For a heartier option, add cooked sausage or chicken for extra protein.
Additional Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most out of this recipe:
- Soak the Lentils: For an even softer texture, consider soaking your lentils for a few hours before cooking.
- Use Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh thyme instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup.
- Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze leftovers for an easy meal on a busy day.
- Customize Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions about this Lentil Soup with Spinach and Tomatoes:
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned lentils. However, reduce the cooking time since canned lentils are already cooked. Add them towards the end of the simmering process.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, add all ingredients except the spinach and lemon juice. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the spinach and lemon juice just before serving.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.
What can I substitute for spinach?
If you don’t have spinach on hand, kale or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes. Both will provide a similar texture and nutritional profile.
How can I make this soup more filling?
To make the soup more filling, consider adding grains like quinoa or barley. You can also increase the amount of vegetables or include some diced potatoes.