15 Delicious Lentil Soup Recipes

Lentil soup is one of the most versatile comfort foods—nutritious, affordable, and incredibly satisfying. Packed with protein, fiber, and earthy flavor, lentils adapt beautifully to a wide range of cuisines, from classic homestyle versions to bold, spice-filled variations.

Whether you prefer it creamy, chunky, vegan, or meaty, there’s a lentil soup to match every mood and season. These recipes showcase just how exciting lentil soup can be.

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1. Classic Hearty Lentil Soup

A timeless favorite, this hearty lentil soup features carrots, celery, onions, and green lentils simmered in a savory broth. It’s wholesome, filling, and the definition of comfort food. This recipe makes a big pot, perfect for family dinners or weekly meal prep that stays flavorful for days.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups green lentils, rinsed
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a pot; sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery until softened.
2. Stir in lentils, thyme, and broth.
3. Simmer 35–40 minutes until lentils are tender.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve.

Special Twist: A splash of red wine vinegar at the end brightens the flavors.

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2. Mediterranean Lentil and Tomato Soup

This zesty soup brings Mediterranean flavors together with lentils, tomatoes, garlic, and oregano. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of feta cheese finish the dish beautifully. It’s tangy, herby, and comforting, perfect for serving with crusty bread for a wholesome lunch or light dinner.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp oregano
• 1 tsp basil
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Feta cheese for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil; sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Stir in tomatoes, oregano, basil, lentils, and broth.
3. Simmer 35 minutes until lentils are soft.
4. Garnish with feta and drizzle with olive oil.

Special Twist: Feta cheese adds tangy creaminess to the tomato base.

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3. Indian Spiced Lentil Soup (Dal)

Fragrant and warming, this Indian-inspired soup uses red lentils, turmeric, cumin, and ginger for bold flavor. Finished with a squeeze of lemon and fresh cilantro, it’s aromatic and comforting. Pair it with naan or rice for a protein-packed vegetarian meal that’s both hearty and healthy.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 tsp turmeric
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 tsp coriander powder
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Lemon wedges and cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion, garlic, and ginger.
2. Add turmeric, cumin, and coriander; toast briefly.
3. Stir in lentils and broth; simmer 25 minutes.
4. Finish with lemon juice and cilantro.

Special Twist: Temper spices in hot oil first for maximum flavor.

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4. Smoky Lentil and Bacon Soup

This hearty soup is infused with smoky, savory flavors thanks to crispy bacon and smoked paprika. Lentils, potatoes, and carrots make it filling, while the bacon adds a rich depth. It’s a cozy, meat-forward version of lentil soup that’s perfect for cold-weather comfort.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups green lentils, rinsed
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 6 cups chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook bacon until crisp; remove and set aside.
2. In bacon fat, sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
3. Add lentils, paprika, and broth; simmer 35 minutes.
4. Stir bacon back in before serving.

Special Twist: Smoked paprika enhances the bacon’s savory flavor.

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5. Creamy Coconut Lentil Soup

Rich yet light, this vegan-friendly soup combines red lentils with coconut milk, ginger, and curry powder for a tropical flair. The coconut makes it silky smooth while balancing the spices. It’s fragrant, nourishing, and delicious served with basmati rice or warm flatbread.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion, garlic, and ginger.
2. Stir in curry powder, lentils, and broth.
3. Simmer 25 minutes until lentils are soft.
4. Stir in coconut milk; finish with lime juice.

Special Twist: Coconut milk makes this soup creamy without dairy.

6. Greek Lemon Lentil Soup

Bright and refreshing, this soup combines lentils with lemon juice, oregano, and olive oil for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor. It’s light yet filling, perfect for spring or summer meals. The citrusy tang balances the earthy lentils beautifully, making it a unique twist on traditional comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil; sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Stir in lentils, oregano, and broth; simmer 35 minutes.
3. Add lemon juice and zest; cook 5 minutes more.
4. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Special Twist: Fresh lemon juice brightens the entire dish.

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7. Spicy Moroccan Lentil Soup

Inspired by North African flavors, this soup blends lentils with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Tomatoes and chickpeas add richness, while harissa or chili flakes bring heat. It’s aromatic, hearty, and perfect for those who love globally inspired comfort food with a spicy kick.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups green lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp coriander
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp chili flakes or 1 tsp harissa
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion and garlic.
2. Add spices, toast 1 minute.
3. Stir in lentils, tomatoes, chickpeas, and broth; simmer 35 minutes.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve hot.

Special Twist: A hint of cinnamon adds warmth and depth.

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8. Lentil and Vegetable Stew

This chunky stew is loaded with lentils, potatoes, carrots, and zucchini for a wholesome, vegetable-forward meal. It’s hearty without being heavy, making it perfect for family dinners. Seasoned with herbs and simmered until tender, it’s a great way to enjoy a balanced, nutrient-packed dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups green lentils, rinsed
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 1 zucchini, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes.
2. Add lentils, thyme, and broth; simmer 25 minutes.
3. Stir in zucchini; cook 10 minutes more.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve.

Special Twist: Zucchini adds freshness and lightness to the hearty stew.

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9. Lentil and Spinach Soup

This nourishing soup combines lentils with fresh spinach for a green, protein-packed bowl. Garlic, onions, and a touch of nutmeg enhance the flavor, while a drizzle of olive oil adds richness. It’s light yet filling, making it an excellent option for healthy weeknight meals.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 4 cups spinach leaves
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 pinch nutmeg
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add lentils, oregano, nutmeg, and broth; simmer 30 minutes.
3. Stir in spinach; cook until wilted.
4. Serve with a drizzle of olive oil.

Special Twist: A pinch of nutmeg enhances the spinach’s flavor.

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10. Lentil and Sweet Potato Soup

Sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and creaminess to this earthy lentil soup. Spiced with cumin and paprika, it’s warming and hearty while still nutritious. The sweet-savory balance makes it a family favorite, perfect for cozy dinners when you want something wholesome and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed
• 2 sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion and garlic.
2. Add sweet potatoes, lentils, cumin, paprika, and broth.
3. Simmer 30 minutes until tender.
4. Blend partially for a creamy texture.

Special Twist: Sweet potatoes give the soup a sweet, velvety finish.

11. Curried Red Lentil Soup

This vibrant soup features red lentils simmered with curry powder, ginger, and garlic. Coconut milk makes it creamy, while fresh cilantro and lime add brightness. It’s warming yet refreshing, a balanced dish that’s easy to make and full of exotic flavor—perfect with naan or steamed rice.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups red lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp curry powder
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Lime wedges and cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion, garlic, and ginger.
2. Stir in curry powder, toast 1 minute.
3. Add lentils, broth, and coconut milk; simmer 25 minutes.
4. Finish with lime juice and cilantro.

Special Twist: Coconut milk and lime make this soup fragrant and creamy.

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12. Italian Lentil and Sausage Soup

Savory Italian sausage brings rich flavor to this rustic soup. Lentils, tomatoes, and herbs round out the dish, creating a hearty bowl that tastes like it’s been simmering all day. It’s cozy, filling, and pairs beautifully with a slice of garlic bread.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups brown lentils, rinsed
• 8 oz Italian sausage, crumbled
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp oregano
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook sausage until browned, remove and set aside.
2. Heat oil; sauté onion and garlic.
3. Add tomatoes, lentils, broth, and oregano; simmer 30 minutes.
4. Stir sausage back in; garnish with basil.

Special Twist: Italian sausage adds richness and depth to the broth.

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13. Lentil and Barley Soup

This hearty stew-like soup combines lentils and barley for a double boost of protein and fiber. Carrots, celery, and herbs add depth, while slow simmering makes it rich and satisfying. It’s rustic and wholesome, a true comfort dish perfect for cold winter nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
• ½ cup pearl barley
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Add lentils, barley, thyme, and broth.
3. Simmer 45–50 minutes until tender.
4. Adjust seasoning and serve.

Special Twist: Barley makes the soup extra hearty and filling.

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14. Lentil and Kale Soup

Packed with greens, this nutrient-rich soup combines lentils with kale for a healthy, satisfying meal. Garlic and red pepper flakes add a subtle kick, while lemon juice brightens the flavor. It’s light yet hearty, perfect for health-conscious eaters who still want comfort food.

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ cups brown lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups chopped kale
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion, garlic, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add lentils and broth; simmer 30 minutes.
3. Stir in kale and lemon juice; cook 5 minutes.
4. Season and serve.

Special Twist: Lemon juice lifts the earthy flavor of kale and lentils.

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15. Lentil and Pumpkin Soup

This autumn-inspired soup combines earthy lentils with creamy pumpkin puree for a rich, velvety dish. Spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, it has a cozy, festive flavor perfect for fall and winter. It’s a beautiful, golden-orange soup that tastes as comforting as it looks.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil; sauté onion and garlic.
2. Stir in lentils, broth, pumpkin puree, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Simmer 25 minutes until lentils are soft.
4. Blend for a creamy texture, season to taste.

Special Twist: Pumpkin puree adds creamy sweetness and festive flavor.