Are you a soup lover? I am! There is something about a warm bowl of soup on a cold day that is so comforting. But sometimes soup can take hours to prepare, and quite frankly who has the time? This quick and simple lentil soup is just that, quick & simple! It only takes about 40 minutes from start to finish. I use red lentils in this recipe which break down faster than other types of lentils. Once the lentils are soft and tender I add a cilantro paste and finish it with fresh lemon juice to create a unique flavor that keeps you coming back for more. You’re gonna want to try this soup for sure.
Quick and Simple Lentil Soup
Using red lentils in this recipe helps it cook up fast. I like to serve this with a warm baguette on the side .
Ingredients
- 1/2 onion, diced (about 1 cup)
- 1 cup red lentils
- 5 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh cilantro (about a handful)
- 2-3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pinch of salt
- Juice of 1 lemon (or more if needed)
Instructions
1. Sauté onion in 1-2 tbsp olive over medium heat until soft and translucent. This takes about 5 minutes. Do not brown the onions.
2. Add lentils, stir. Then add broth and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower heat and simmer for 30 minutes until the lentils are soft and “mushy”.
3. Meanwhile, make the cilantro paste. In a mini food processor or blender add cilantro, 2 tbsps of olive oil and a pinch of salt. Blend until smooth. Set aside until next step.
4. Once lentils are done, add about 1 cup of the cooked lentils to the cilantro paste and blend until smooth.
5. Return lentil/cilantro mixture back to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Add the juice of 1 lemon and stir again. Taste and serve!
Serve with hot baguette or pour over rice.
Notes
- This recipe can easily be doubled to serve more.
- Red Lentils or split red lentils break down quicker than other types of lentils which is why this soup cooks up so fast. Feel free to use any kind of lentil you want, but keep in mind the cooking time will change. Simmer until the lentil is soft and tender.
