Hearty Lentil and Veggie Soup Recipe

I really love making lentil veggie soup on weekends for quick weekday lunches. It’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrition.

I start by chopping carrots, onions, and celery. Then I add them to my slow cooker with lentils and vegetable broth. For extra flavor, I include some minced garlic and tomato paste. A can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes gives the soup a nice depth.

Seasoned with dried Italian herbs, curry powder, and a pinch of cayenne for heat, this soup really brings out the flavors of the vegetables and lentils. After cooking, I portion the soup into containers for the week. It reheats well and tastes even better after a day or two in the fridge.

Creating a Cozy Meal Scene

A rustic bowl of hearty lentil and veggie soup sets the stage for a warm and inviting meal experience. Imagine a steaming bowl that captures the essence of comfort food, surrounded by vibrant colors from fresh carrots, celery, and a sprinkle of herbs.

This cozy setup is not just about the soup; it’s about the atmosphere created by the wooden table that enhances the homemade feel. Pairing the soup with a slice of crusty bread completes the meal, making it perfect for a chilly day at home.

The Joy of Meal Prep

Meal prepping is a wonderful way to ensure that healthy options are always available. A pot of lentil and veggie soup simmering on the stove fills the kitchen with a delightful aroma, making it hard to resist. It’s a routine I cherish, especially on weekends, when I love making lentil veggie soup for quick weekday lunches.

Preparing this soup is straightforward. I start by chopping carrots, onions, and celery, which form the base of the recipe. These ingredients, along with lentils and vegetable broth, come together in a slow cooker, creating a nourishing dish that’s packed with nutrition.

Boosting Flavor with Fresh Ingredients

To enhance the taste profile of the soup, I add minced garlic and tomato paste. The inclusion of a can of fire-roasted diced tomatoes lends a rich depth, making each bite satisfying. Seasoning the soup with dried Italian herbs, curry powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper brings forth a wonderful warmth that complements the freshness of the vegetables.

The spices and varied textures create a delightful harmony, ensuring that this soup is not just filling but also bursting with flavor. The careful selection of ingredients really makes a difference in elevating a simple dish into something special.

Easy to Customize

This hearty lentil soup is perfect for customization, allowing everyone to tailor it to their taste. I often adjust the spices based on what I have at home or what I’m in the mood for. If a milder flavor is desired, simply reduce the cayenne pepper. This flexibility makes it a versatile option for busy weeks.

Not only does it keep well in the fridge, but it also tastes even better after a day or two, developing deeper flavors as it sits. Portioning the soup into various containers makes it easy to grab and go during the week, ensuring that healthy meals are always at hand.

Nutritional Benefits

One of the most attractive features of lentil soup is its nutritional profile. This hearty lentil soup is filling and provides a great way to incorporate plenty of veggies and protein into each serving. With lentils as a primary ingredient, each bowl is a powerhouse of nutrients—rich in fiber and essential minerals.

I often pair my soup with crusty bread or a side salad, creating a well-rounded meal that satisfies hunger without sacrificing health. Knowing I have nutritious meals ready to go not only saves time but also supports better eating habits throughout the week.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this vibrant soup, presentation matters. Ladling the steaming soup into bowls and garnishing with fresh parsley adds a touch of freshness. The contrast of the colorful soup against a rustic backdrop emphasizes the homemade charm of the dish.

Enjoying this soup with a slice of crusty bread allows for dipping and enhances the overall texture of the meal. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a cozy dinner, this lentil and veggie soup is sure to be a hit, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table.

Nutritious Lentil and Veggie Soup

This hearty lentil soup is filling and satisfying, ensuring you stay full until dinner. It’s a great way to pack in lots of veggies and protein in one meal.

I often pair it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete lunch. It’s quickly become one of my go-to meal prep recipes for busy weeks.

Ingredients

• 1 cup lentils, rinsed
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• 1 teaspoon curry powder
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Vegetables: Chop the carrots, onion, and celery. Mince the garlic.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a slow cooker, add the lentils, chopped vegetables, minced garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, and spices.
3. Cook: Set the slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
4. Season: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional spices as desired.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours (slow cooker)
• Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes

• Servings: 4 bowls
• Calories: 250kcal
• Fat: 2g
• Protein: 13g
• Carbohydrates: 45g

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