Hearty Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery Recipe

Lentil soup with carrots and celery is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture yourself cozied up on the couch, steam rising from a bowl of this hearty goodness, while the aroma dances through the air, teasing your taste buds with promises of rich flavors and comforting textures.

The first spoonful hits you with a delightful blend of earthy lentils, sweet carrots, and crisp celery—each bite is a symphony of taste that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. It’s the kind of dish that can transform an ordinary weeknight into a cozy celebration, reminding you of family gatherings or lazy Sunday afternoons spent in good company.

Ingredients for Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery

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

• Green or Brown Lentils: These lentils hold their shape well during cooking, adding texture to your soup.

• Carrots: Fresh, diced carrots provide natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.

• Celery: Chopped celery adds a nice crunch and depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• Onion: A finely chopped onion forms the aromatic base for your soup, enhancing overall flavor.

• Garlic: Minced garlic brings a fragrant punch that elevates this comforting dish.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control over saltiness while allowing the flavors to shine.

• Dried Thyme: This herb provides an earthy undertone that pairs beautifully with lentils.

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors in the soup.

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, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and fragrant—your kitchen will smell like heaven!

Step 2: Add Vegetables

Once your onions are translucent, throw in chopped carrots and celery. Stir occasionally for another 5-7 minutes until they soften slightly. Imagine their colors mingling together like old friends reuniting at a party.

Step 3: Stir in Lentils

Add rinsed green or brown lentils into the pot. Give everything a good stir so those lovely veggies get acquainted with the lentils. This mix is where all the magic begins!

Step 4: Pour in Broth

Pour in vegetable broth (about four cups should do). Bring it to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low. Add dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer away for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender—this is when patience becomes truly rewarding.

Step 5: Final Adjustments

Taste your creation! Feel free to adjust seasoning if needed; perhaps add a pinch more salt or pepper to suit your fancy.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Pair it with crusty bread or salad for an even heartier meal!

Now sit back and enjoy each spoonful of this spectacular lentil soup with carrots and celery—it’s not just food; it’s pure comfort in a bowl!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery until soft. Then add garlic and spices for an aromatic kick. Stir in lentils and broth, let it simmer, and voilà! Your flavorful lentil soup with carrots and celery is ready to warm your soul.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what’s in your fridge. Add spinach for extra greens or toss in some diced tomatoes for a tangy twist. Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile of your lentil soup with carrots and celery.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover lentil soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain its creamy consistency. Microwave or heat on the stove until piping hot.

I remember the first time I made this lentil soup with carrots and celery; my friends thought I had been slaving away in the kitchen all day! Little did they know, it was just my trusty pot working its magic while I danced around the kitchen.

FAQs:

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

Lentil soup with carrots and celery offers numerous health benefits. Lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein, providing essential nutrients for overall well-being. Carrots add beta-carotene, which promotes eye health, while celery contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. This hearty soup is low in calories and high in fiber, aiding digestion and keeping you full longer. Additionally, it’s a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet or manage their weight.

Can I make Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Making lentil soup with carrots and celery in a slow cooker is easy and convenient. Simply combine all ingredients, including lentils, diced carrots, chopped celery, broth, and seasonings in the slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the lentils become tender. It’s a perfect meal prep option for busy days.

How do I store leftovers of Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery?

Storing leftovers of lentil soup with carrots and celery is straightforward. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much during storage. Enjoying this delicious soup later is just as satisfying!

Can I customize my Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery recipe?

Yes, you can definitely customize your lentil soup with carrots and celery! Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach or tomatoes for added nutrition and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices like cumin or paprika to enhance the taste profile. If you prefer a creamier texture, blend part of the soup before serving. Tailoring the recipe allows you to create a personal favorite.

Conclusion for Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery:

In conclusion, lentil soup with carrots and celery is not only nutritious but also versatile and easy to prepare. This comforting dish combines wholesome ingredients that provide numerous health benefits while being low in calories. By utilizing various cooking methods such as stovetop or slow cooker options, you can enjoy this delicious meal any day of the week. Customize it according to your taste preferences to make it even more special. Embrace this flavorful recipe as part of your healthy eating journey! For more inspiration, check out this more delicious recipes recipe.

Print

Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery

---

• Author: Ethan Brooks
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Lentil soup with carrots and celery is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. This hearty, nutritious soup combines earthy lentils, sweet carrots, and crisp celery, delivering a warm embrace in every spoonful. Packed with flavor and easy to customize based on what you have at home, it’s perfect for cozy evenings or meal prep.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil

---

Instructions

1. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions and garlic until soft (about 5 minutes).
2. Add diced carrots and chopped celery; stir occasionally for another 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in rinsed lentils and combine well with the vegetables.
4. Pour in vegetable broth; bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, add thyme, salt, and pepper, then simmer for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with fresh herbs or crusty bread.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (245g)
• Calories: 180
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: For extra nutrition, consider adding spinach or diced tomatoes. To enhance flavor, experiment with herbs like cumin or rosemary. Soaking lentils overnight can reduce cooking time.