Hearty Italian Lentil Soup Recipe
Introduction
Italian Lentil Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. It combines simple ingredients like lentils, tomatoes, and garlic to create a flavorful meal that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris.
- Step 2: In a large pot, combine the lentils, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, and vegetable broth.
- Step 3: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer.
- Step 4: Cook uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For added depth, sauté the garlic in olive oil before adding to the pot.
- Include chopped carrots or celery for extra texture and flavor.
- Use fresh tomatoes in season for a brighter taste.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when serving.
Storage
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown lentils?
Yes, red lentils cook faster and will break down into a creamier texture, making the soup thicker and slightly sweeter in flavor.
Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?
No, lentils do not require soaking and can be cooked directly after rinsing, which saves time in preparing this soup.
PrintHearty Italian Lentil Soup Recipe
This hearty Italian Lentil Soup combines tender lentils, tomatoes, garlic, and vegetable broth in a simple simmering process, creating a comforting and nutritious meal perfect for any day. The soup is flavorful yet light, embodying traditional Italian flavors with a healthy twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, thyme)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. If using, finely chop onions and mince garlic.
- Sauté Aromatics (Optional): In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This step adds depth to the soup flavor but can be skipped if preferred.
- Add Ingredients to Pot: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and dried Italian herbs to the pot. Stir to combine all ingredients well.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and cooked through.
- Season and Finish: Once lentils are tender, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. If the soup is too thick, add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach desired consistency.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use brown or green lentils as they hold their shape well when cooked.
- Red lentils cook faster but tend to turn mushy; adjust cooking time accordingly if used.
- The soup can be refrigerated for up to 4 days and freezes well for up to 3 months.
- For a richer flavor, add a splash of red wine or a Parmesan rind during simmering.
- Adjust seasoning with herbs and spices according to your preference, such as adding crushed red pepper for heat.
Keywords: Italian lentil soup, lentil soup recipe, vegan soup, Italian soup, healthy soup, vegetable broth soup, simple lentil soup
