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.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables & Aromatics

3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup diced onion
1 large carrot (3 – 4 oz), diced
12 oz potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces

Legumes

1 1/4 cups lentils (a mix of green, red split, and black lentils, or green lentils only)

Liquids & Sauces

2 tbsp tomato paste
1/4 cup tomato sauce (optional)
4–5 cups water

Oils & Seasonings

2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp thyme
1/2 tsp oregano

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

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 245g)
Calories: 220
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 700mg
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 9g
Protein: 12g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: lentil soup, potato soup, easy lentil recipe, vegetarian soup, healthy soup, lentil potato stew