Hearty Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery Recipe

Lentil soup with carrots and celery is the ultimate hug in a bowl. Picture this: a warm, steaming pot filled with vibrant orange carrots and green celery, mingling with earthy lentils, all simmering together like they’re at a cozy dinner party. The aroma wafts through the air, making your mouth water and your heart skip a beat—because who doesn’t love a good soup that feels like a soft blanket on a chilly day?

Now let’s get personal for a moment. I remember the first time I made lentil soup with carrots and celery; it was one of those “what am I going to eat tonight?” moments. I rummaged through my kitchen like a raccoon on the hunt, and lo and behold, there they were: lentils, carrots, and celery! I threw them into a pot, crossed my fingers, and hoped for the best. Spoiler alert: it was love at first spoonful! Perfect for cozy nights or when you need something hearty but simple to whip up on a weekday.

Ingredients for Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Green or Brown Lentils: These legumes are hearty and hold their shape well during cooking; avoid red lentils for this recipe as they tend to become mushy.

• Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots add natural sweetness and crunch; opt for organic if possible for maximum flavor.

• Celery: This gives a lovely crunch and an aromatic base; choose firm stalks without any blemishes.

• Onion: A chopped onion forms the flavor foundation; yellow onions work best for their balance of sweetness and bite.

• Garlic: Minced garlic adds depth; fresh cloves are superior to pre-minced varieties in both taste and health benefits.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing the dish’s flavor; homemade broth is even better if you have it!

• Dried Herbs: Thyme and bay leaves will infuse your soup with warmth; feel free to experiment with others like rosemary or parsley.

• Olive Oil: A drizzle of olive oil helps sauté the vegetables and brings them to life; extra virgin is always recommended.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, pour in some olive oil. Once heated, toss in chopped onions, minced garlic, diced carrots, and sliced celery. Sauté until the onions become translucent—about five minutes—and your kitchen starts smelling divine.

Step 2: Add Lentils

Stir in one cup of rinsed lentils along with two teaspoons of dried thyme. This partnership between lentils and herbs is where the magic begins! Stir everything together so that those flavors start mingling like old friends.

Step 3: Pour in Broth

Add four cups of vegetable broth along with two bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a boil—yes, let it bubble away like it’s excited about being dinner tonight! Once boiling, reduce heat to low.

Step 4: Simmer Away

Cover your pot loosely with a lid while letting it simmer gently for around thirty minutes. During this time, feel free to sneak spoonfuls (because who can resist?). You want your lentils tender yet chewy.

Step 5: Season & Adjust

Remove bay leaves before seasoning with salt and pepper according to taste after cooking—this ensures you don’t over-salt during the cooking process.

Step 6: Serve Up

Ladle into bowls while it’s still warm! Drizzle some olive oil atop each serving if you’re feeling fancy—garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Pairing this soup with crusty bread makes for an unbeatable meal!

So there you have it—a delightful lentil soup that’s bursting with flavor while being super easy to whip up! It’s perfect for chilly evenings where you just want something comforting but nutritious too. Enjoy every last drop because trust me—you’ll be going back for seconds!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To create the best lentil soup with carrots and celery, start by sautéing onions, garlic, and your veggies. Then add lentils, broth, and seasonings. Let it simmer until tender. This order ensures each ingredient shines without becoming mushy.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your lentil soup by adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika for extra flavor. Swap out carrots and celery for other vegetables like spinach or kale if you prefer. You can even toss in leftover ham for a meaty twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store your lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to restore creaminess.

Sometimes I find myself reminiscing about the first time I served this lentil soup at a family gathering; everyone went back for seconds and even thirds! That’s when I knew I had a winner on my hands.

FAQs :

What are the benefits of Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery?

Lentil soup with carrots and celery offers numerous health benefits. It is rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like vitamins A and C. The lentils provide a hearty base that is both satisfying and nutritious. Carrots add natural sweetness and beta-carotene, while celery contributes crunch and hydration. This soup is also low in calories, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight. Moreover, the high fiber content promotes digestion and heart health, making this recipe a wholesome addition to your diet. For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes recipe.

Can I make Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery in advance?

Yes, you can prepare lentil soup with carrots and celery in advance. This dish actually tastes better after sitting for a day as the flavors meld together beautifully. To store it, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for longer storage. When reheating, add a little water or broth if needed since the soup may thicken as it sits. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep or busy weeknights.

What variations can I try with Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery?

There are several delicious variations you can try with lentil soup with carrots and celery. For added flavor, consider incorporating spices such as cumin or smoked paprika. You can also mix in other vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before serving. For a protein boost, adding diced chicken or sausage works well too. Experimenting with different herbs like thyme or bay leaves can also elevate the taste of your soup.

Is Lentil Soup suitable for vegans?

Absolutely! Lentil soup with carrots and celery is naturally vegan-friendly as it contains no animal products. The ingredients consist solely of plant-based foods, making it an excellent choice for vegans and vegetarians alike. Additionally, this recipe provides a complete protein source due to the combination of lentils and vegetables. It’s filling, nutritious, and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal without compromising dietary preferences.

Conclusion for Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery :

In summary, lentil soup with carrots and celery is a nourishing dish packed with flavor and health benefits. It offers a great source of protein and fiber while being low in calories, making it ideal for any diet. You can easily prepare this soup in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen over time. With countless variations available, you can customize it to suit your taste preferences while keeping it vegan-friendly. Enjoy this comforting bowl of goodness as part of your healthy eating routine!

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Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery

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• Author: Mark Taylor
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Lentil soup with carrots and celery is a heartwarming dish that offers both comfort and nourishment in every spoonful. This easy-to-make, one-pot wonder combines earthy lentils with vibrant vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep. Ready in just under an hour, this flavorful soup not only satisfies your cravings but also supports your health goals. Serve it alone or alongside crusty bread for a wholesome meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent (about 5 minutes).
2. Add diced carrots and sliced celery; cook for an additional 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the rinsed lentils and dried thyme.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and add bay leaves. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Cover loosely and simmer for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
6. Remove bay leaves and season with salt and pepper before serving.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 230
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 300mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 11g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Enhance flavor by adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika. Substitute other vegetables such as spinach or kale for added nutrition. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days or freeze for longer storage.