Italian Lentil Soup Hearty Winter

Name: Italian Lentil Soup Hearty Winter
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Cooking

Warm up with this comforting and nutritious Italian Lentil Soup, perfect for chilly winter days.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-24T22:42:27.697Z

This hearty Italian Lentil Soup is a staple in many households, providing warmth and nourishment during the winter months. With rich flavors and a variety of vegetables, it's a meal that everyone will love.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Packed with protein and fiber for a healthy meal
Rich, earthy flavors with a touch of Italian herbs
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

The Nutritional Benefits of Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition, making them an excellent choice for a hearty soup. They are loaded with protein and fiber, which help keep you feeling full and satisfied. With about 18 grams of protein per cup, they are a fantastic plant-based alternative to meat, making this soup a great option for vegetarians and vegans alike.

In addition to being high in protein, lentils are also rich in essential vitamins and minerals. They contain significant amounts of iron, which is crucial for energy production and maintaining healthy blood cells. They also provide folate, which is vital for cell function and tissue growth, especially important for pregnant women.

Italian Herbs and Flavors

This Italian Lentil Soup isn't just nutritious; it's also bursting with flavor. The combination of dried oregano and basil gives the soup its signature Italian flair, enhancing the earthy taste of the lentils. These herbs are known for their health benefits as well, including anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants that combat free radicals in the body.

Furthermore, the addition of garlic not only elevates the flavor profile but also adds health benefits. Garlic is renowned for its immune-boosting properties and can help lower blood pressure, making this soup a delicious way to support your overall health.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this Italian Lentil Soup is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch at the beginning of the week and store it in the refrigerator for quick, healthy meals. It keeps well for several days and can even be frozen for future use, making it a convenient option for busy lifestyles.

When reheating, the flavors of the soup only get better, allowing the herbs and spices to meld beautifully. Simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave, and you have a wholesome meal ready in minutes. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete dining experience!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Italian Lentil Soup

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smoother preparation.

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft.

Add Garlic and Lentils

Stir in the minced garlic and lentils, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your hearty Italian Lentil Soup!

This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and tastes even better the next day.

Storage Tips

To store your Italian Lentil Soup, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to five days, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to three months.

When freezing, leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen. Label each container with the date so that you can keep track of how long it has been stored. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

This Italian Lentil Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various sides. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The crispness of the salad complements the warmth of the soup perfectly.

You can also serve the soup with a slice of crusty Italian bread or garlic bread for dipping. The bread will soak up the delicious broth, enhancing the overall dining experience. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a dollop of pesto on top can also elevate the flavors even further.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of lentils?

Yes, you can use any type of lentils, but cooking times may vary.

→ Is this soup vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

→ Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, this soup freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.