Hearty Lentil Soup with Smoked Paprika and Lemon: A Wholesome Delight
Warm your soul with this Hearty Lentil Soup, a vibrant and satisfying blend of earthy lentils, smoky paprika, and a bright squeeze of lemon. This comforting and flavorful soup boasts a delightful savory depth, making it a perfect choice for a wholesome weeknight dinner. A simple yet deeply rewarding recipe that promises a nourishing and delicious experience. The combination of earthy lentils, smoky paprika, and bright lemon creates a complex flavor profile that's both comforting and invigorating. #LentilSoup #SoupRecipe #ComfortFood #EasyRecipe #HealthyRecipe
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe is a winner because it’s both flavorful and incredibly easy to make. The lentils provide a hearty base, the smoked paprika adds a delicious smoky depth, and the lemon juice brightens the whole thing up beautifully. It’s a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and comforting meal. The long simmering time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and complex soup that’s both healthy and delicious. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something warm, nourishing, and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. #SimpleRecipe #FlavorfulSoup #HealthyMeal #WeeknightDinner
Ingredients: A Flavorful and Nutritious Blend
This recipe utilizes simple, readily available ingredients to create a deeply satisfying and healthy soup. The focus is on fresh, high-quality ingredients that allow the natural flavors to shine through. #HealthyIngredients #FlavorfulSoup #SimpleRecipe
| Category | Ingredient | Quantity (for 6-8 servings) |
|---|---|---|
| Fat | Olive Oil | 2 tbsp |
| Aromatics | Onion, chopped | 1 large |
| Vegetables | Carrots, diced | 2 medium |
| Vegetables | Celery, diced | 2 stalks |
| Aromatics | Garlic, minced | 2 cloves |
| Spice | Smoked Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Spice | Ground Cumin | 1/2 tsp |
| Spice | Chili Flakes (optional) | 1/4 tsp |
| Legume | Brown or Green Lentils, rinsed | 200g (1 cup) |
| Liquid | Vegetable Broth | 1.5 liters (6 cups) |
| Canned goods | Diced Tomatoes, undrained | 400g (14 oz) can |
| Spice | Bay Leaf | 1 |
| Citrus | Lemon, juiced | 1 |
| Herbs | Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish) | To taste |
| Seasoning | Salt and Pepper | To taste |
Instructions: Simple Steps to a Delicious Soup
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened (5-7 minutes).
- Add garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and chili flakes (if using); cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
- Remove bay leaf. Stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Add other vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or kale.
- Use red lentils for a creamier soup.
- For a spicier soup, add more chili flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
Serving Suggestions
This Hearty Lentil Soup is delicious on its own, but it also pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a dollop of plain yogurt. #SoupLover #VegetarianRecipe #HealthySoup #EasyLentilSoup
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Approximate values (per serving): 250 calories, 15g protein, 40g carbohydrates, 5g fat. (This is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
More Delicious Recipes
Discover more warm and comforting recipes on our blog at FlavorTrailRecipes.blogspot.com!