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Golden Glow Red Lentil Soup – A Nutritious & Hearty 30-Minute Meal

This Golden Glow Red Lentil Soup is a quick, nutritious, and satisfying meal perfect for any day of the week. Made with simple ingredients like red lentils, vegetables, and warm spices, this hearty soup is ready in just 30 minutes. Its creamy texture and rich flavor make it a comforting dish that’s both healthy and delicious. Serve it with a squeeze of lemon and fresh herbs for an extra burst of freshness!
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup ~220 g red lentils (rinsed)
  • 1 medium-sized onion chopped
  • 1 leek sliced
  • 1 medium-sized carrot chopped
  • 1 medium-sized potato chopped
  • 1 –2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp butter
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 liter boiling water or broth
  • 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • A pinch of cumin
  • A small bunch of cilantro or parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Sauté the Aromatics – Heat olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, leek, and carrot. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  2. Add the Potato and Lentils – Stir in the chopped potato and rinsed red lentils. Season with salt, black pepper, and cumin. Mix well.
  3. Incorporate Tomato Paste & Liquids – Stir in the tomato paste, then pour in the boiling water or broth. Stir to combine.
  4. Simmer Until Soft – Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
  5. Blend for Creaminess (Optional) – For a smooth texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup. If you prefer a chunkier consistency, leave it as is.
  6. Taste & Serve – Adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve warm with a wedge of lemon and crusty bread.

Notes

  • If the soup thickens too much after sitting, add a little extra water or broth when reheating.
  • For a richer taste, substitute half of the water with coconut milk or cream.
  • A squeeze of lemon just before serving enhances the flavor and adds freshness.
  • You can add extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for variation.