Introduction Story
There’s something comforting about a pot of lentil soup simmering on the stove—especially on days when you need a warm, nourishing meal that doesn’t take much effort. Growing up, lentils were a staple in my home because they were affordable, filling, and packed with protein. As life got busier, this soup became my go-to recipe for busy weeknights, meal prep Sundays, or anytime I needed a healthy dish that came together quickly. This easy lentil soup delivers everything you want in one bowl: richness, warmth, and a surprising amount of protein that keeps you energized all day.
Easy Lentil Soup High Protein
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Wooden Spoon
Ingredients
Soup Ingredients
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1.5 cups dry lentils rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1 tsp salt or to taste
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup spinach fresh
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Stir in lentils, broth, cumin, paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Stir in spinach and lemon before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
How to Make the Recipe (300 words)
Making this easy high-protein lentil soup couldn’t be simpler, and the entire process fills your kitchen with a comforting aroma. Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once warm, add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook these vegetables for about five minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and slightly golden. This forms the flavorful base that every great soup needs.
Next, add the minced garlic and sauté briefly until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Now it’s time to add the star ingredient: lentils. Pour the rinsed lentils into the pot and stir to coat them in the aromatic vegetable mixture. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, and pepper. These spices give the soup a rich, earthy warmth while boosting its nutritional profile.
Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and allow the soup to simmer. This step takes about 25–30 minutes, depending on the type of lentils you use. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As the soup cooks, the lentils soften and become creamy while still holding their shape. You’ll notice the broth thickening naturally as the lentils release starch.
Once the lentils are tender, stir in fresh spinach for added nutrients and color. The heat of the soup will wilt the leaves instantly. Finish by adding a splash of lemon juice to brighten the flavors, balancing the earthiness of the lentils.
This soup is filling on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. It keeps well for several days, making it ideal for meal prep or quick lunches throughout the week.
Conclusion (100 words)
This easy high-protein lentil soup is the perfect combination of convenience, nutrition, and comfort. With its rich flavor, hearty texture, and excellent protein content, it’s a recipe that fits seamlessly into busy routines and healthy lifestyles. Lentils cook quickly, store well, and deliver long-lasting energy, making this soup ideal for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. Whether enjoyed fresh from the pot or reheated during the week, each bowl feels warm, nourishing, and satisfying. Add this simple yet powerful recipe to your rotation, and you’ll always have a wholesome meal ready to enjoy.