Italian Lentil Soup with Fresh Herbs

Name: Italian Lentil Soup with Fresh Herbs
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Highlighted under: Seasonal Table

Warm up with a hearty and nutritious bowl of Italian Lentil Soup, packed with fresh herbs and vegetables.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-17T00:02:18.851Z

This Italian Lentil Soup is a comforting dish that brings together the earthy flavors of lentils, fresh herbs, and vegetables. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Nutritious and filling, packed with protein and fiber
Bursting with fresh herbs for a vibrant flavor
Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables

      

A Hearty Meal for Any Occasion

Italian Lentil Soup is not just a dish; it's a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a nutritious lunch option, this soup brings comfort and satisfaction. The hearty texture of lentils combined with the vibrant flavors of fresh herbs makes it a delightful choice for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners.

Whether you're serving it alongside crusty bread or a fresh salad, this soup is versatile enough to complement any meal. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce more plant-based meals into your diet without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.

Health Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, providing an excellent source of protein and fiber. They are low in fat and high in essential nutrients, making them an ideal choice for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. A single cup of lentils can offer nearly 18 grams of protein, making it a great option for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Furthermore, lentils are rich in vitamins and minerals such as iron, folate, and magnesium. Regularly incorporating lentils into your diet can support heart health, improve digestion, and help in weight management due to their high fiber content.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the best features of Italian Lentil Soup is its flexibility. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Consider incorporating spinach, kale, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. You can also adjust the level of spices to suit your taste, making it as mild or as spicy as you prefer.

For those who enjoy a creamier texture, blending a portion of the soup before serving can create a rich, velvety consistency. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like rosemary or cilantro to put your personal twist on this classic recipe.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 teaspoons dried oregano
2 teaspoons dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, and thyme. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Lentils and Broth

Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Finish with Fresh Herbs

Stir in the chopped parsley and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Enjoy your hearty Italian Lentil Soup!

Storing Leftovers

This Italian Lentil Soup is perfect for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. The flavors continue to meld and improve over time, making it even more delicious on the second or third day.

If you want to keep it for a longer period, consider freezing portions of the soup. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove, adding a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty Italian bread or a side salad. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar can elevate the flavors even further.

If you're hosting a gathering, consider serving this soup as an appetizer in small bowls or cups. It’s an impressive yet simple way to kick off your meal, allowing guests to enjoy its hearty flavors before the main course.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use red or yellow lentils, but cooking times may vary.

→ How can I store leftover soup?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

→ Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Italian Lentil Soup is naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I add meat to the soup?

Absolutely! You can add cooked sausage or chicken for additional protein.