This easy red lentil soup is perfect for those chilly days when you need something warm and comforting. Bursting with flavors from fresh vegetables and spices, this soup is both hearty and healthy.
Photos of Easy Red Lentil Soup Recipe
If you don't typically keep red lentils or smoked paprika in your pantry, you'll need to pick these up at the supermarket. Both add unique flavors and textures to the soup, making it a delightful dish.
Ingredients for Easy Red Lentil Soup
Olive oil: Adds a rich, smooth base for sautéing the vegetables.
White onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
Celery: Adds a slight crunch and aromatic freshness.
Carrots: Brings natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Red pepper: Enhances the soup with a smoky, sweet taste.
Garlic cloves: Infuses the soup with a rich, savory flavor.
Chicken broth: Forms the flavorful liquid base for the soup.
Red lentils: Adds protein and a hearty texture.
Paprika: Imparts a smoky, slightly spicy flavor.
One reader, Krysta Woodard says:
This easy red lentil soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors blend perfectly, and it's so simple to make. The hearty texture and rich taste make it a comforting meal. Definitely adding this to my weekly rotation!
Techniques Required for Making Easy Red Lentil Soup
How to heat oil: Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat until it shimmers. How to sauté vegetables: Add onion, celery, carrots, roasted red pepper, and garlic to the heated oil and cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is translucent. How to simmer: After adding the broth, lentils, and smoked paprika, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook until the lentils are tender. How to serve soup: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm.
How To Make Easy Red Lentil Soup
Enjoy a warm bowl of red lentil soup packed with nutritious veggies such as celery, carrot, red lentils, and garlic, soaked in vegetable or chicken broth.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2tbspolive oil
- 1cupwhite onion,chopped
- ½cupcelery,chopped
- ½cupcarrots,chopped
- ½cupred pepper,diced, roasted
- 3garlic cloves,chopped
- 3cupschicken broth,or vegetable broth
- 1cupred lentils
- 1tsppaprika,smoked
Instructions
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Heat the oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion, celery, carrots, roasted red pepper, and garlic and saute for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion is cooked and translucent.
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Add the broth, lentils, and smoked paprika. Reduce heat to medium-low, and simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are cooked.
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Serve warm.
Nutrition
- Calories: 218.97kcal
- Fat: 6.44g
- Saturated Fat: 1.09g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 4.06g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.96g
- Carbohydrates: 29.67g
- Fiber: 4.72g
- Sugar: 4.85g
- Protein: 11.62g
- Cholesterol: 3.60mg
- Sodium: 189.44mg
- Calcium: 32.16mg
- Potassium: 476.99mg
- Iron: 2.62mg
- Vitamin A: 117.52µg
- Vitamin C: 20.84mg
Technique Tip for Making Easy Red Lentil Soup
To enhance the flavor of your red lentil soup, consider toasting the paprika in the olive oil for about 30 seconds before adding the onion, celery, carrots, red pepper, and garlic. This will release the essential oils in the paprika and give your soup a deeper, more complex flavor.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Red Lentil Soup
Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the onion, celery, carrots, and red pepper ahead of time and store them in the fridge.
Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic from a jar instead of peeling and chopping fresh cloves.
Opt for pre-made broth: Use store-bought chicken broth to cut down on preparation time.
Quick-cooking lentils: Choose red lentils as they cook faster than other varieties.
Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and freeze portions for quick meals later.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Red Lentil Soup Recipe
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties.
white onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onions have a similar flavor profile and can be used interchangeably.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel provides a similar crunch and a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and a slightly sweeter taste.
red pepper - Substitute with green pepper: Green peppers offer a similar texture with a slightly more bitter taste.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic for a similar flavor.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth provides a similar depth of flavor and is suitable for vegetarians.
red lentils - Substitute with yellow lentils: Yellow lentils cook similarly and have a comparable texture and flavor.
paprika - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Use sparingly, as cayenne pepper is spicier but adds a similar depth of flavor.
Best Way to Present Easy Red Lentil Soup
Use a shallow, wide bowl: This allows the vibrant colors of the red lentil soup to be showcased beautifully, creating an inviting presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a sprinkle of finely chopped parsley or cilantro on top to add a pop of green and enhance the visual appeal.
Drizzle with olive oil: A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil on the surface adds a glossy finish and a touch of elegance.
Add a dollop of yogurt: Place a small spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream in the center of the soup for a creamy contrast and added richness.
Serve with artisan bread: Accompany the soup with a slice of toasted artisan bread or baguette on the side, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Use microgreens: Top the soup with a few microgreens for a delicate and sophisticated touch.
Incorporate a swirl of paprika oil: Create a visually appealing swirl on the surface using a small amount of paprika-infused oil.
Serve with a lemon wedge: Include a lemon wedge on the side to allow diners to add a fresh, zesty flavor to the soup if desired.
Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika: Lightly dust the top with a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance the aroma and add a subtle smoky flavor.
Use a contrasting plate: Serve the soup in a white or light-colored bowl to make the vibrant colors of the vegetables and lentils stand out.
Essential Tools for Making Red Lentil Soup
Saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is essential for cooking the soup, allowing for even heat distribution and enough space for all ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is perfect for stirring the vegetables and lentils without scratching the saucepan.
Chef's knife: A sharp chef's knife is necessary for chopping the onion, celery, carrots, red pepper, and garlic efficiently.
Cutting board: A sturdy cutting board provides a safe surface for chopping all the vegetables.
Measuring cups: Measuring cups are needed to accurately measure the broth, lentils, and vegetables.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons ensure you add the correct amount of paprika and olive oil.
Ladle: A ladle is useful for serving the soup into bowls once it's ready.
Garlic press: A garlic press can be used to mince the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Stirring spoon: A stirring spoon is handy for mixing the ingredients while they cook.
Bowl: A bowl is used to hold the chopped vegetables before they are added to the saucepan.
How To Store and Freeze Red Lentil Soup
Let the red lentil soup cool completely before storing or freezing. This will prevent condensation from forming and potentially spoiling the soup.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 5 days in the fridge.
For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions:
- Ladle the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Lay the bags flat in the freezer for easier storage and quicker thawing.
- Frozen red lentil soup will maintain its best quality for up to 6 months.
To reheat the soup, transfer the desired portion to a saucepan and heat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the soup appears too thick, add a little water or broth to achieve the desired consistency.
If reheating frozen soup, you can either thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it directly from frozen. If reheating from frozen, place the soup in a saucepan and heat over low heat, stirring frequently, until it has thawed and is heated through.
How To Reheat Leftover Red Lentil Soup
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover red lentil soup to a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is evenly reheated without burning or sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Microwave method: pour the leftover soup into a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through. This method is quick and convenient, but be careful not to overheat the soup, as it can cause the lentils to become mushy.
Slow cooker method: if you have a large quantity of leftover soup, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker and heat it on low for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is ideal for keeping the soup warm for an extended period, making it perfect for serving at a party or gathering.
Add-ins: to enhance the flavor of the reheated soup, consider adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a dollop of yogurt or sour cream. These add-ins can brighten up the flavors and make the soup taste as if it were freshly made.
Adjust consistency: if the soup has thickened during storage, you can thin it out by adding a little chicken broth or water until it reaches the desired consistency. Conversely, if the soup is too thin, you can simmer it for a few minutes to reduce and concentrate the flavors.
Random Fact About Red Lentil Soup
A random fact about this recipe is that red lentils cook faster than other types of lentils, making them perfect for quick and easy soups. They also break down more during cooking, which helps to create a creamy texture without the need for blending.
Is This Red Lentil Soup Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?
This red lentil soup recipe is highly cost-effective. The main ingredients like red lentils, carrots, celery, and onion are affordable and widely available. Chicken broth and olive oil add a bit to the cost but are still budget-friendly. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $10-$12 USD. Overall Verdict: 9/10.
Is This Red Lentil Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?
This red lentil soup recipe is generally healthy, as it contains several nutritious ingredients:
- Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals
- Vegetables like onion, celery, carrots, and red pepper provide essential nutrients and antioxidants
- Olive oil is a healthy source of monounsaturated fats
- Garlic has potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation
However, there are a few aspects that could be improved to make the recipe even healthier:
- The recipe calls for chicken broth, which may contain added sodium. Consider using low-sodium or homemade vegetable broth to reduce the overall salt content
- To increase the nutrient density, you could add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini
- Experiment with different spices and herbs to enhance flavor without relying on salt, such as cumin, coriander, or thyme
- For a creamier texture and added nutrition, consider blending a portion of the soup and stirring it back into the pot
- To make the recipe vegan-friendly, simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth
By incorporating these suggestions, you can elevate the nutritional value of this already healthy red lentil soup recipe, making it an even more satisfying and nourishing meal.
Editor's Thoughts on This Easy Red Lentil Soup Recipe
This red lentil soup recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. The combination of sautéed vegetables and garlic creates a robust base, while the red lentils add a creamy texture. The smoked paprika introduces a subtle depth, enhancing the overall taste. Using chicken broth ensures a rich, savory profile. It's a nutritious, hearty dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon for added brightness.
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Why trust this Easy Red Lentil Soup Recipe:
This easy red lentil soup recipe is a must-try for its simplicity and rich flavor. The combination of onion, celery, carrots, and red pepper creates a hearty base, while garlic and smoked paprika add depth and warmth. Using chicken broth ensures a savory taste, and red lentils cook quickly, making this a perfect weeknight meal. Trust this recipe for a nutritious, delicious, and easy-to-make soup that will become a staple in your kitchen.
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