How to Make the Perfect Lemon Lentil Soup
Middle Eastern · Easy · 45 min · 6 servings
This hearty and nourishing lemon lentil soup is brightened with a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice stirred in at the end of cooking. It is a warming plant-based meal that is packed with protein and comes together in about 40 minutes.
Why this recipe works
This Lemon Lentil Soup recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 290 calories with 16g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 2 cups red lentils rinsed
- 1 large yellow onion diced
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 whole lemons juiced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 6 cups vegetable broth
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Saute Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add garlic and cumin and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Simmer the Lentils
Add the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the lentils are completely tender and starting to break down.
Step 3: Blend and Adjust
Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup directly in the pot, leaving some texture. Alternatively transfer half the soup to a blender and return it to the pot. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Finish with Lemon
Stir in the fresh lemon juice just before serving and taste for seasoning. The lemon brightens all the flavors dramatically. Serve hot garnished with a swirl of olive oil and fresh parsley.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- red lentils → green lentils for a heartier less creamy texture
- vegetable broth → chicken broth if not keeping the soup vegan
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Adding lemon juice too early during cooking which dulls its bright flavor
- Not rinsing the lentils which can make the soup cloudy and affect flavor
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 290 calories, 16g protein, 48g carbs, 5g fat, 12g fiber.
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