Description
Warm, nourishing, and packed with flavor, Grandma’s Lentil Soup is the ultimate comfort food made with pantry staples and fresh vegetables. This easy recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a quick dinner idea or a healthy lunch prep. The hearty lentils, tender potatoes, and vibrant greens make it a satisfying, plant-based meal that’s ideal for cold days, busy weeknights, or when you just need something cozy and wholesome. Great for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and full of fiber and protein, this easy recipe checks every box—from healthy snacks to dinner ideas.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups lentils
2 medium potatoes, chopped
2 cups spinach
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
2 tablespoons olive oil
6 cups vegetable broth
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until soft and fragrant.
2. Stir in garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add diced tomatoes and rinsed lentils. Stir to combine and coat.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover partially, and simmer for 25-30 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped potatoes and continue simmering for another 15-20 minutes until lentils and potatoes are tender.
6. Add spinach and stir until wilted, about 2 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with bread or toppings of choice.
Notes
Let the soup rest 10 minutes after cooking for best flavor.
Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach if preferred.
Add a splash of lemon juice or vinegar before serving to brighten flavors.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: easy dinner, healthy soup, lentil recipe, vegan soup, comfort food