Name: Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Ingredients: 1 onion, chopped; 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced; 2 stalks celery, finely chopped; 1 ½ cups cubed potatoes (around 4-5 small potatoes); 2 carrots, peeled and chopped into coins; ½ cup dry green or brown lentils, rinsed; ½ tsp thyme; ½ tsp marjoram; 6 cups vegetable stock; ⅓ cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tbsp sour cream; Pinch of salt (adjust based on veggie broth saltiness); 2 tbsp olive oil

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 13 reviews

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There is something truly comforting and nourishing about a warm bowl of lentil soup, and this Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe is no exception. Packed with vibrant vegetables, fragrant herbs, and wholesome lentils, it’s a delightful meal that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day, yet light and refreshing enough to enjoy any time. This recipe balances simple, everyday ingredients to create a rich, satisfying soup that’s as colorful as it is delicious, making it a go-to for anyone craving hearty, healthy goodness.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A black pan filled with three main layers of chopped vegetables arranged in sections: bright orange round carrot slices on the upper left, pale yellow cube-shaped potato pieces on the right, and a mix of light green celery bits and white onion pieces at the bottom left and center. There is a small sprinkle of white salt on top of the carrots. The pan is sitting on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

All the ingredients in this Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe are straightforward and easy to find, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of texture and flavor. From the earthy lentils to the tender potatoes and aromatic herbs, these essentials come together to create a truly memorable soup.

Onion (chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth as the base for sautéing.
Garlic cloves (finely chopped or minced): Delivers a gentle punch of warmth and aroma.
Celery stalks (finely chopped): Lends a mild crispness and a touch of freshness.
Cubed potatoes (1 ½ cups): Brings creamy texture and helps thicken the soup naturally.
Carrots (peeled and chopped into coins): Add natural sweetness and vibrant color.
Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning.
Dry green or brown lentils (½ cup, rinsed): The hearty protein base that soaks up the broth beautifully.
Thyme (½ tsp): Offers an earthy, slightly minty note to brighten the soup.
Marjoram (½ tsp): Complements thyme with a delicate, sweet herbal fragrance.
Vegetable stock (6 cups): The flavorful liquid that unifies all ingredients into a comforting broth.
Shredded cheddar (⅓ cup): Adds creamy richness and a touch of tang.
Sour cream (2 tbsp): Balances the soup with smooth, tangy creaminess.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing and infusing a subtle fruity undertone.

How to Make Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and celery, and sauté until the garlic is translucent and soft. This step forms a flavorful foundation by gently releasing the sweetness and aromas of the vegetables.

Step 2: Add the Root Vegetables and Seasoning

Next, toss in the cubed potatoes and carrot coins, then sprinkle a pinch of salt depending on how salty your vegetable broth is. Fry the mixture for about 1 to 2 minutes to start softening the vegetables and let their flavors mingle.

Step 3: Combine Lentils, Herbs, and Broth

Now it’s time to add the rinsed lentils, thyme, marjoram, and vegetable stock. Cover the pan with a lid, bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes. The lentils should become tender but still hold their shape for the perfect texture.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheddar

Once cooked, remove the soup from heat and allow it to cool slightly for about 5 minutes. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese so it melts smoothly into the broth, enriching the soup’s creaminess and depth of flavor.

Step 5: Add Sour Cream Smoothness

Scoop out a quarter cup of the soup liquid without any veggies into a small bowl. Stir in the sour cream until it dissolves, then mix this creamy blend back into the soup, giving it a velvety, tangy finish.

Step 6: Blend for Creaminess (Optional)

If you love a luscious texture, feel free to blend about one-quarter of the soup using a stick blender. This adds a wonderful creaminess while still keeping plenty of the veggies intact for satisfying bites.

Step 7: Final Taste and Seasoning

Give your soup one last taste, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. A little adjustment here can elevate the flavors from good to unforgettable.

How to Serve Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe

Two white bowls filled with chunky soup sit on a white marbled surface. The soup has a creamy light brown base with visible pieces of orange carrot slices, pale yellow potato chunks, green celery bits, and small brown lentils scattered throughout. Bright green parsley leaves float on top, adding a fresh pop of color. One bowl is closer to the camera, showing a silver spoon resting inside, while the other bowl is partially visible near the top left. A small white bowl of dry lentils and a beige cloth napkin are also on the surface nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chives are perfect for sprinkling on top, adding a fresh, vibrant burst to each spoonful. You can also try a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkling of extra shredded cheddar for added creaminess and visual appeal.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with rustic bread or crunchy croutons to soak up every bit of the delicious broth. A simple green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette complements the earthy flavors and adds a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls with a swirl of sour cream and a sprinkle of herbs right before serving. You could even serve it in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and cozy twist that’s sure to impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it a fantastic option for quick meals later in the week.

Freezing

This soup freezes exceptionally well. Pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and store for up to 3 months. It’s convenience and nutrition all in one!

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If it seems too thick after freezing, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the consistency.

FAQs

Can I use red lentils instead of green or brown?

Red lentils cook faster and tend to break down into a softer texture, creating a more puréed soup. Green or brown lentils are better if you prefer a chunkier consistency, as called for in this Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe.

Is it possible to make this soup gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable stock. Be sure to check labels on processed ingredients like broth or cheese to be safe.

Can I make this soup without dairy?

Yes, simply omit the cheddar and sour cream, or substitute with dairy-free cheese and plant-based yogurt or sour cream alternatives for a vegan-friendly version.

How can I adjust the soup to be spicier?

Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper, some smoked paprika, or a drizzle of hot sauce to give the Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe a spicy kick that suits your taste.

What is the best way to store leftover soup without it losing flavor?

Store the soup in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. When reheating, add a splash of fresh vegetable stock or water to revive the flavors and consistency, stirring well to blend everything back together.

Final Thoughts

This Vegetarian Lentil Soup Recipe is one of those dishes that feels both simple and special, perfect for cozy nights at home or impressing your loved ones with soul-warming flavors. I encourage you to give it a try—once you taste that mix of tender lentils, fresh veggies, and creamy cheese, it might just become a favorite in your recipe collection too.

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