Name: Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup diced onion; 1 large carrot (3 – 4 oz), diced; 12 oz potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 1/4 cups lentils (a mix of green, red split, and black lentils, or green lentils only); 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1/4 cup tomato sauce (optional); 4-5 cups water; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp thyme; 1/2 tsp oregano

Jump to Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting bowl that’s both nourishing and simple to make, you’ll absolutely adore this Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe. It’s a warm hug in a bowl, packed with hearty lentils and tender potatoes simmered just right, blending into a savory, satisfying soup that feels like home with every spoonful. Whether you want a quick weeknight meal or something to warm you up on a chilly day, this recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen.

Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this soup lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create a rich, layered flavor. Every item is chosen to enhance the texture, depth, and heartiness without any fuss.

2 tbsp vegetable oil: This is your cooking base, giving a smooth start for sautéing and adding a subtle richness.
3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings aromatic warmth and a gentle kick to awaken the flavors.
1/4 cup diced onion: Onion adds a natural sweetness and foundational depth.
1 large carrot (3 – 4 oz): Carrots introduce a soft texture and subtle sweetness to balance the savory elements.
2 tbsp tomato paste: This enriches the soup with a concentrated tomato flavor and lovely color.
1/4 cup tomato sauce (optional): Adds extra tomato brightness and moisture for a more luscious texture.
1 1/4 cups lentils: Lentils are the star protein, with a hearty bite and incredible nutrition; a mix of lentils works well, but green ones shine.
12 oz potatoes (cut into bite-sized pieces): Potatoes bring creaminess and body when cooked, making the soup more filling.
2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors to life.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds a subtle warmth to enhance the overall taste.
1/4 tsp thyme: Thyme introduces a gentle earthiness, tying the ingredients together.
1/2 tsp oregano: Oregano offers an herbal punch that complements the tomato and lentils beautifully.
4-5 cups water: The liquid base that simmers everything to tender perfection.

How to Make Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven, the kind of pot that promises cozy meals. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about a minute until it starts to soften. Then add the minced garlic and diced carrot, stirring often for 2 to 3 minutes. This step is crucial because it wakes up those aroma-packed ingredients and lays a flavorful foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Add Tomato and Lentils

Next, stir in the tomato paste and optional tomato sauce, which will coat your veggies in a luscious, tangy glaze. Then add the lentils, mixing everything together so they start to soak up that rich tomato taste. Let it cook for just about a minute – this little toast-like step amplifies the depth of flavor before adding the potatoes.

Step 3: Combine Potatoes and Simmer

Now, it’s time to add the potatoes and pour in about 4 cups of water. Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano. Cover the pot and bring it all to a boil, then reduce to medium-low heat and let it simmer gently. This step is where magic happens as the lentils soften and the potatoes cook through, usually taking between 25 and 35 minutes. You’ll want the lentils tender and the potatoes easily pierced by a fork but still holding their shape.

Step 4: Final Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Before serving, give the soup a good taste test. This is your moment to add a little extra salt or pepper if needed. A well-seasoned soup makes all the difference, bringing everything into perfect harmony. Serve the soup warm and get ready to enjoy a bowl of pure comfort.

How to Serve Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A simple garnish can truly elevate your Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe. Try a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, which adds a bright, herbal note and cheerful color. A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream can bring a creamy tang that balances the earthiness beautifully. For crunch, toasted pumpkin seeds or crispy croutons are terrific companions.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm pita for dipping and soaking up every last bit. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette cuts through the soup’s richness and adds a refreshing contrast. If you want to keep things simple, some warm naan or garlic bread are crowd-pleasers that complement the flavors nicely.

Creative Ways to Present

Serving this soup in rustic bowls can make it all feel extra cozy. For a special touch, drizzle olive oil or balsamic reduction on top. If you’re hosting, serve the soup in individual mugs for a charming and casual experience. You might also try layering the soup with toppings in clear glasses: a fun way to show off all the beautiful colors and textures.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness. The flavors often deepen overnight, making leftovers even better the next day – if you can resist eating it all at once!

Freezing

This soup freezes wonderfully, making it a perfect candidate for meal prep. Cool it completely, then pour into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be safely frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a cozy night in, just thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge or freezer, simply add a splash of water or broth to restore the perfect consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave, just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils for this soup?

Absolutely! While green lentils provide a nice texture and flavor, red or black lentils can be used as well. Just keep in mind that red lentils cook faster and may break down more, making the soup thicker and creamier.

Is this Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, this soup is naturally vegan and vegetarian since it contains no animal products. Just double-check that any optional ingredients you add, like broth or garnishes, are plant-based if you’re strict on vegan eating.

Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?

Definitely! Swapping water for vegetable broth will add an extra layer of flavor and make the soup even more savory and aromatic. It’s a great way to boost the taste without extra effort.

How spicy is this soup?

This soup is mild and comforting in terms of spice, relying mostly on herbs like oregano and thyme rather than heat. If you love some kick, you can always toss in a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce when serving.

Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Of course! Feel free to get creative by adding chopped celery, spinach, kale, or even bell peppers. Just add them during the sauté step or while the soup simmers so they cook properly and blend with the flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe is one of those rare dishes that’s both incredibly simple and deeply satisfying. It’s perfect for anyone who wants a wholesome, cozy meal without a complicated ingredient list or a long time in the kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try and let yourself savor every warm, hearty spoonful—you might just find your new favorite soup!

Easy Lentil Potato Soup Recipe

★★★★★

4.8 from 11 reviews

Author: anna
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Lentil Potato Soup is a hearty, nutritious, and comforting dish perfect for a cozy meal. Combining tender lentils with soft potatoes, flavorful tomato paste, and aromatic herbs, this soup is both simple to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients. Ideal for a healthy lunch or dinner, it caters to vegetarian and gluten-free diets while offering a rich source of protein and fiber.

Instructions

Sauté Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 1 minute until it begins to soften. Then add the minced garlic and diced carrot, cooking for another 2-3 minutes while stirring frequently to prevent burning and to release the flavors.
Add Tomato and Lentils: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 1/4 cup of tomato sauce (if using), coating the vegetables evenly. Add the lentils and cook for 1 minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add Potatoes and Seasonings: Toss in the bite-sized potato pieces, then pour in 4 cups of water. Add 2 teaspoons of salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1/4 teaspoon thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon oregano. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Simmer the Soup: Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer gently for 25 to 35 minutes. The soup is ready when the lentils are cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if desired. Serve the soup warm for the best flavor and comfort.

Notes

You can use any variety of lentils, but green lentils hold their shape best in this soup.
If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of water or blend a portion of the soup before serving.
For added richness, a splash of lemon juice or a dollop of yogurt makes a great garnish.
This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
Adjust the herbs and spices to your preference; adding cumin or smoked paprika can add a different flavor dimension.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: Mediterranean