As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of soup to cozy up with. And when it comes to hearty, plant-based options, red lentils are a great choice. With their mild flavor and soft texture, they’re the perfect base for a creamy, delicious soup. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the best of what red lentils have to offer.
From spicy and smoky to bright and citrusy, these soups are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling cozy and content. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
Spiced Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk
Spiced Red Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk Recipe
A warm and aromatic soup that combines the comforting flavor of red lentils with the richness of coconut milk, spiced with a blend of Indian-inspired spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, curry powder, cinnamon, and cardamom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in the coconut milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan-Inspired Red Lentil and Tomato Soup
Warm up with this aromatic and flavorful soup inspired by the spices of Morocco. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the lentils, tomatoes, and vegetable broth.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Garlicky Red Lentil Soup with Lemon Zest
This hearty soup is a flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional lentil soup, infused with the brightness of lemon zest. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Zest of 1 lemon
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Smoky Red Lentil and Sweet Potato Soup
Warm up with this hearty, comforting soup that combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthy flavor of red lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the sweet potato, lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Turmeric-Ginger Red Lentil Soup
Warm up with this nourishing and flavorful soup that combines the benefits of turmeric, ginger, and red lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add grated ginger and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add red lentils, turmeric, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creamy Red Lentil and Carrot Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of creamy texture and sweet flavors, made with red lentils, carrots, and aromatic spices. It’s an ideal meal for a chilly evening or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut cream
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, carrots, and lentils; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in coconut cream and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Lentil Soup with Spinach and Cumin
This comforting soup is a staple of many cuisines around the world. With its rich, slightly sweet flavor and nutritious ingredients, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges and crusty bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and lentils. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add diced tomatoes, broth, and spinach. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with lemon wedges and crusty bread if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Curried Red Lentil Soup with Coconut
This comforting soup combines the warmth of curry spices with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a hearty and nutritious package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon curry powder
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 cup coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, and curry powder; cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Lentil and Butternut Squash Soup
Warm Up with Red Lentil and Butternut Squash Soup
This comforting soup combines the creamy sweetness of roasted butternut squash with the comforting warmth of red lentils. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss butternut squash cubes with 2 tablespoons olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat until softened.
4. Add lentils, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in roasted butternut squash and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Herbed Red Lentil Soup with Fresh Dill
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the earthy flavor of red lentils with the bright, citrusy taste of fresh dill. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh dill.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Lentil Soup with Crispy Fried Onions
This comforting soup is a staple of many cuisines, and the addition of crispy fried onions takes it to the next level. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious red lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Crispy fried onions (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, broth, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Meanwhile, prepare crispy fried onions (see below).
4. Serve the soup hot, topped with crispy fried onions.
Crispy Fried Onions:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Fry the onion slices in hot oil until crispy, then drain on paper towels. Sprinkle with flour, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Lemon-Garlic Red Lentil Soup with Kale
Brighten up a chilly day with this vibrant and flavorful soup, bursting with the warmth of red lentils, zesty lemon, and pungent garlic. This hearty and healthy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups curly kale leaves, stems removed and discarded, leaves torn into bite-sized pieces
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add lentils, lemon juice, broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Stir in kale leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Lentil and Chickpea Soup with Tahini
This hearty soup combines the comforting warmth of red lentils and chickpeas with the rich, creamy flavor of tahini. Perfect for a chilly day or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons tahini
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, water or broth, chickpeas, garlic, onion, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
3. Stir in tahini and lemon juice until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spicy Red Lentil Soup with Harissa
This North African-inspired soup is a flavorful and warming blend of red lentils, aromatic spices, and the slow-building heat of harissa. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting meal any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 2 tablespoons harissa
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the lentils, water, and harissa. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 35-45 minutes
Red Lentil Soup with Roasted Garlic and Thyme
Warm up with this comforting and aromatic soup, perfect for a chilly day. The sweetness of red lentils pairs beautifully with the deep flavors of roasted garlic and thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place garlic cloves on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until tender.
2. In a large pot, sauté the roasted garlic in a little water until soft. Add lentils, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Blend soup until smooth or leave it chunky, depending on your preference.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Red Lentil and Mushroom Soup with Rosemary
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms, nutty red lentils, and aromatic rosemary. Its rich flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for a chilly winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, mushrooms, and rosemary; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Add the red lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Creamy Red Lentil Soup with Cashew Butter
This comforting soup is a delicious twist on traditional lentil soups, with the added creaminess of cashew butter. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1/2 cup cashew butter
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, broth, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
4. Stir in the cashew butter until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Red Lentil Soup with Turmeric and Black Pepper
A comforting and nutritious soup that combines the warmth of turmeric and black pepper with the earthy flavor of red lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little water until softened.
2. Add the lentils, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Stir well.
3. Pour in the water or broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave some texture if preferred.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Lentil and Tomato Basil Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of flavors, with the sweetness of tomatoes and the earthiness of red lentils. It’s a great way to warm up on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the lentils, tomatoes, broth, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Lentil Soup with Cilantro and Lime
This vibrant red lentil soup is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any time of year. The addition of fresh cilantro and lime juice gives it a bright and refreshing twist.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine lentils, broth, onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and diced tomatoes.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Cozy up to a warm bowl of creamy red lentil soup with these 20 delicious recipes! From classic spiced soups to international-inspired flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try adding coconut milk and spices for an Indian-inspired twist, or go Moroccan with tomatoes and cumin. Add some smokiness with roasted sweet potatoes or get bright and citrusy with lemon zest. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or a healthy lunch option, these creamy red lentil soups are sure to become a new favorite.
