|

Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe

ByMadison
Jump to Recipe· 4.5 from 43 reviews

If you’re craving something soulful, warming, and packed with wholesome goodness, you’re going to absolutely love this Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a big hug in a bowl — perfect for cozy nights or when you want a nutritious meal that’s easy to make but tastes like you’ve been cooking it all day. Stick around, and I’ll walk you through everything you need to create this delicious, comforting soup!

🧡

Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Flavor Base: The combo of cumin, curry powder, and thyme gives the soup a warm, inviting depth without overpowering the lentils.
  • Rich and Hearty Texture: Using a good amount of olive oil adds a silky richness that turns a simple soup into something truly satisfying.
  • Greens for Freshness & Nutrition: Adding kale or collard greens at the end keeps them vibrant and adds a lovely contrast in texture and flavor.
  • Blend for Creaminess: Puréeing a portion of the soup thickens it naturally without any dairy, making it silky yet chunky and inviting.
Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens, Lentil Soup recipes, healthy lentil soup, cozy soup ideas, nourishing green lentil soup - A large white pot filled with a thick, orange-red soup that has visible chunks of diced vegetables like carrots and tomatoes, along with bits of dark green leafy vegetables mixed throughout. The soup has a slightly textured surface with some oil sheen. A wooden spoon with a deep, rounded scoop rests inside the pot, partially submerged in the soup, showing its thickness. The pot has slight brown marks near the edges inside, indicating it has been simmering. The pot sits on a white marbled surface with subtle gray veins. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

Each ingredient plays its part in creating a balanced, hearty lentil soup with plenty of layers. Choosing quality, fresh ingredients here makes all the difference — and a few key elements help bring out that beautiful, cozy flavor.

Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens, Lentil Soup recipes, healthy lentil soup, cozy soup ideas, nourishing green lentil soup - Flat lay of a small white ceramic bowl of extra virgin olive oil, a medium yellow onion peeled and chopped, two peeled and chopped fresh carrots, four whole garlic cloves, a small white bowl with ground cumin powder, a small white bowl with curry powder, a small white bowl with dried thyme, a simple white ceramic dish of diced ripe red tomatoes, a small white bowl filled with brown lentils, a small white bowl of clear vegetable broth, a small white bowl of water, a small white bowl of salt crystals, a small pinch of red pepper flakes on a white ceramic plate, freshly ground black pepper in a small white bowl, a handful of chopped fresh collard greens with ribs removed, and half a fresh medium lemon cut in half placed symmetrically, all arranged with perfect balance and symmetry, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Extra virgin olive oil: It might seem like a lot, but it lends richness and helps soften the veggies and spices, making the soup taste full-bodied.
  • Onion: A building block for nearly every savory dish, it adds sweetness and aromatic depth once sautéed.
  • Carrots: They provide a natural sweetness that balances the spices and acidity from the tomatoes.
  • Garlic: Essential for that punch of flavor that wakes up the whole soup.
  • Ground cumin and curry powder: These warm spices bring earthy, complex flavors, making the soup memorable.
  • Dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that complements the lentils nicely.
  • Diced tomatoes: They add acidity and a hint of sweetness; draining slightly prevents the soup from getting too watery.
  • Brown or green lentils: The star of the show; they hold their shape well but soften to a lovely texture when cooked.
  • Vegetable broth and water: The cooking liquid that infuses flavor and helps tenderize the lentils.
  • Salt and red pepper flakes: To season and add a gentle kick; you control just how spicy it gets.
  • Fresh collard greens or kale: These hearty greens add nutrition, texture, and beautiful color at the end.
  • Lemon juice: A simple splash brightens the whole bowl and pulls the flavors together.
📝
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Tweak to Your Taste

This Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe is a perfect canvas for your personal touch — I often adjust the spice level or swap out greens based on what’s fresh at the market. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

  • Spice it up: I sometimes add a dash of smoked paprika or even a pinch of cayenne if I’m craving a bit more heat, and it never disappoints!
  • Greens swap: If you’re out of collard greens or kale, try spinach or even swiss chard for a different texture but equally vibrant nutrients.
  • Additions: For a heartier meal, a handful of diced potatoes or sweet potatoes cooked with the lentils is fantastic.
  • Make it vegan or gluten-free: This recipe is naturally both — just be sure your broth fits your dietary needs.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe

Step 1: Sauté your aromatics to build flavor

Start by warming the olive oil in your favorite large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. When the oil shimmers (that’s your cue!), toss in the chopped onion and carrots. Stir frequently as they soften and the onion turns translucent — usually about 5 minutes. This step unlocks a subtle sweetness and depth that forms the flavor base, so don’t rush it. The kitchen already starts smelling amazing here, trust me.

Step 2: Spice it up and add tomatoes

Next, stir in the garlic, cumin, curry powder, and thyme. The moment these hit the warm oil, they release an intoxicating aroma — cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes that you’ve lightly drained — cooking them a few minutes helps intensify their flavor. This is where your soup layers get super interesting, so don’t skip the step of stirring often.

Step 3: Add lentils, broth, and simmer patiently

Pour in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and water. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Crank the heat to bring the pot to a boil, then partially cover and reduce to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 25 to 30 minutes — your goal is tender lentils that hold their shape, not mush. This is where good patience pays off, so give it time and stir occasionally.

Step 4: Blend for creamy texture, add greens last

Once the lentils are tender, ladle about two cups of the soup into a blender. Be careful with the hot liquid — covering the lid with a kitchen towel keeps you safe from steam. Purée until smooth, then stir it back into the pot to create a luscious, creamy texture without needing cream. Alternatively, use an immersion blender right in the pot if you have one. Next, toss in your fresh chopped greens, letting them wilt gently in the hot soup for 5 minutes. This method keeps them vibrant and tender.

Step 5: Brighten and season to perfection

Finish by stirring in lemon juice — start with one tablespoon and add more if you like a brighter tang. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes until the flavors really pop. This final tweak makes a huge difference and brings all those individual ingredients together in harmony. Now your hearty lentil soup is ready for the table!

💡

Pro Tips for Making Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe

  • Don’t skip draining the tomatoes: Too much liquid can make your soup watery and dull; just a quick drain keeps flavors concentrated.
  • Go easy on the lemon at first: You can always add more acidity later, so start small and adjust to taste at the end for best results.
  • Use fresh, hearty greens: Make sure to remove tough ribs from kale or collard greens so your soup isn’t chewy.
  • Rinse lentils well: This removes dust or debris and ensures a cleaner taste and texture in your final soup.

How to Serve Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe

Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens, Lentil Soup recipes, healthy lentil soup, cozy soup ideas, nourishing green lentil soup - Two white bowls filled with thick lentil soup sit on a round wooden board over a white marbled surface. Each bowl contains a rich brown broth with visible chunks of orange carrots, red tomatoes, and green leafy vegetables. The lentils are scattered throughout, giving a textured look with small round shapes. One bowl shows a silver spoon dipped into the soup, partially covered by the liquid. A dark blue cloth napkin lies beside the bowls, and a half lemon is partially visible on the white marble background. The scene is brightly lit and inviting, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I like to garnish my lentil soup with a drizzle of good-quality extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for a fresh burst. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of feta cheese (if you’re not vegan) adds a lovely creaminess, too — it’s all about adding little layers of texture and flavor that surprise your palate.

Side Dishes

My favorite pairing is warm crusty bread or soft pita for dunking — to soak up every drop. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness beautifully. For a heartier meal, roasted root vegetables or steamed grains like quinoa or rice make excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve served this soup in hollowed-out mini pumpkins or rustic bread bowls for casual dinner parties — it’s a fun, cozy twist that impresses guests. You could also layer it with a swirl of herb oil or smoked paprika-infused oil on top to elevate its look and taste for special occasions.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I typically let leftovers cool completely, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it taste even better the next day. Just make sure to consume within about 4 days for the best freshness and safety.

Freezing

Freezing works wonderfully with this soup! I portion it out into individual freezer-safe jars or bags for quick meals later on. When freezing, avoid adding lemon juice beforehand — add fresh after reheating for brightness. It freezes well for several months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

When reheating, I prefer warming the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick or scorch. A splash of water or broth helps loosen it if it thickened too much in the fridge. After warmed through, I stir in fresh lemon juice to revive the brightness.

FAQs

  1. What kind of lentils work best for this Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe?

    Brown or green lentils are ideal because they hold their shape well during cooking, giving the soup a wonderful texture without turning mushy. Red lentils cook faster but can make the soup too soft and sometimes mushy, so they’re less suited for this particular recipe.

  2. Can I use frozen greens instead of fresh for this soup?

    Yes, frozen greens can be used in a pinch, but add them a bit earlier as they need longer to cook and won’t have quite the same vibrant texture or color as fresh. Fresh greens are my personal favorite for that bright flavor and appealing bite.

  3. Is this soup suitable for meal prep?

    Absolutely! This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days and freezes wonderfully, making it perfect for meal prep. Just prepare in advance, portion it out, and you’ve got quick, nourishing lunches or dinners ready to go.

  4. Can I add protein like sausage or chicken to this recipe?

    Of course! While I love this recipe as is for a plant-based meal, you can add cooked sausage or shredded chicken for an extra protein boost. Just add your cooked meat towards the end to warm through without overcooking.

Final Thoughts

This Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe has been a go-to in my kitchen for years — it’s forgiving, nourishing, and versatile, and it never fails to deliver that comforting “made with love” feeling. Whether you’re new to cooking lentils or a seasoned soup lover, give this one a try. I’m confident it’ll become one of your favorites too, and you’ll find yourself coming back to it season after season.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Hearty Lentil Soup with Greens Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.5 from 43 reviews
  • Author: Madison
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian
Print Recipe

Description

This hearty and flavorful lentil soup features a blend of aromatic spices, fresh vegetables, and tender lentils, creating a nutritious and comforting meal perfect for any day. Enhanced with a touch of lemon juice and leafy greens, it’s both satisfying and wholesome.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 medium yellow or white onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
  • 4 garlic cloves, pressed or minced
  • 2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon curry powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 large can (28 ounces) diced tomatoes, lightly drained
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, picked over and rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup chopped fresh collard greens or kale, tough ribs removed
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice (½ to 1 medium lemon), to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat the Oil: Warm the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat until shimmering, which adds richness to the soup.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Add the chopped onion and carrot, cooking and stirring often until the onion becomes translucent and soft, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add Spices and Tomatoes: Stir in garlic, cumin, curry powder, and thyme, cooking until fragrant for about 30 seconds. Pour in the diced tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes while stirring frequently to enhance their flavor.
  4. Simmer Lentils: Add the lentils, vegetable broth, water, salt, red pepper flakes, and freshly ground black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a gentle simmer with the pot partially covered. Cook for 30 minutes until lentils are tender but intact.
  5. Blend Part of Soup: Transfer 2 cups of the soup to a blender, cover securely, and puree until smooth, protecting your hand from steam. Pour the puréed soup back into the pot. Alternatively, use an immersion blender to blend a portion.
  6. Add Greens and Finish Cooking: Stir in the chopped collard greens or kale and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens soften.
  7. Season and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, then adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, lemon juice, or red pepper flakes to taste. Serve hot.
  8. Store Leftovers: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days or freeze for several months, thawing before serving.

Notes

  • This recipe is inspired by America’s Test Kitchen’s lentil soup and The First Mess’ favorite version.
  • Use a high-speed blender like a Vitamix or an immersion blender for smooth pureeing.
  • A Dutch oven is ideal for even heat distribution and simmering.
  • Adjust the amount of lemon juice and red pepper flakes according to your taste preference.
  • For a thicker consistency, puree more soup before blending back in.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 12 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg

You Might Also Like These Recipes

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating 5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star