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A hearty Mediterranean diet soup recipe with zucchini, carrots, corn, and celery in a tomato-based broth, served in a red pot.

Classic Mediterranean Lentil Soup

Mary T.
A hearty and nutritious Mediterranean-style lentil soup made with earthy lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a healthy and flavorful meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine Mediterranean
Servings 4 people
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 Large Pot (for cooking the soup)
  • 1 Cutting Board (for chopping vegetables)
  • 1 Knife (for dicing ingredients)
  • 1 Wooden Spoon (for stirring)

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup green or brown lentils rinsed
  • 1 medium onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 1 celery stalk diced
  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth or water
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground coriander
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric
  • 1/2 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics:

  • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
  • Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery, and cook for another 3-4 minutes.

Add Spices & Lentils:

  • Add cumin, paprika, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the vegetables in the spices.
  • Pour in the rinsed lentils and stir for another minute.

Simmer the Soup:

  • Add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Finish & Serve:

  • Stir in the lemon juice and let the soup rest for 5 minutes.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Notes

  • For a smoother texture, blend half of the soup using an immersion blender.
  • Serve with crusty bread or pita for a complete meal.
  • Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Keyword Healthy Soup, Lentil Soup, Mediterranean