Italian Lentil Soup Hearty Winter

Name: Italian Lentil Soup Hearty Winter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 6 cups vegetable broth; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups spinach or kale, chopped; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Recipes

Warm up this winter with a hearty bowl of Italian Lentil Soup, packed with flavor and nutrition.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-24T22:18:28.060Z

This Italian Lentil Soup is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl! Full of earthy lentils, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s perfect for chilly evenings.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and comforting flavors that warm you from the inside out
Packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep or family dinners

      

The Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, making them a fantastic addition to any meal. Rich in protein, they provide a complete amino acid profile, essential for muscle repair and growth. Additionally, lentils are packed with dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and contributes to a feeling of fullness, helping to manage weight effectively. Including lentils in your diet can also contribute to heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and regulating blood sugar.

Another remarkable benefit of lentils is their versatility. They can easily absorb the flavors of the ingredients they are cooked with, making them an ideal base for soups, stews, and salads. Whether you choose green, brown, or even red lentils, they can complement a wide range of cuisines, from Italian to Indian, allowing you to get creative in the kitchen.

Perfect for Meal Prep

This Italian Lentil Soup is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator or freezer for easy, healthy meals on busy days. The flavors of the soup actually deepen and improve after a day or two, making it even more satisfying when reheated. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

When meal prepping, consider portioning the soup into individual servings. This makes it easy to grab a quick lunch or dinner, ensuring that you always have a nutritious option on hand. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you have a complete meal that requires minimal effort on your part.

Customizing Your Soup

One of the best things about this Italian Lentil Soup is its adaptability. Feel free to customize it based on your personal preferences or what you have available in your pantry. You might add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes for added nutrition and flavor. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to spice things up.

Additionally, if you're looking for a heartier meal, consider adding grains such as quinoa or barley. These ingredients will add extra texture and nutrients, turning your soup into a more filling option. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to create variations that suit your taste.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Italian Lentil Soup:

Main Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
6 cups vegetable broth
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups spinach or kale, chopped
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Italian Lentil Soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.

Add Garlic and Spices

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

Combine Lentils and Tomatoes

Add the rinsed lentils, canned tomatoes, and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.

Finish with Greens

Stir in the chopped spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your hearty Italian Lentil Soup!

Now that your soup is ready, it's time to enjoy every warm spoonful!

Storing Leftover Soup

Storing leftover Italian Lentil Soup is straightforward and allows you to enjoy it for days to come. After cooking, let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. If you’d like to keep it longer, consider freezing it in portions. Just remember to leave some space in the container, as liquids expand when frozen.

When you're ready to enjoy the soup again, simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup has thickened during storage, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This ensures that every bowl remains as delicious as the first.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your Italian Lentil Soup with a side of freshly baked bread. A crusty baguette or some garlic bread would be perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth. Additionally, a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the hearty soup and add a fresh crunch to your meal.

For a touch of indulgence, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top of the soup before serving. The creamy, salty cheese complements the earthy flavors of the lentils beautifully. Finally, don’t forget to garnish your bowl with fresh parsley for a pop of color and an added layer of freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use any type of lentils, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze the soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.