Why You’ll Love This Spanish Lentil Soup Recipe
If you’re looking for a comforting, nutritious meal, you’re going to love this Spanish Lentil Soup recipe. It’s packed with flavor and makes for a hearty dish that warms your soul.
I appreciate how easy it’s to prepare, letting me enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of lentils and spices creates a delightful depth that satisfies my cravings.
Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in veggies! Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just want something cozy, this soup is my go-to.
Trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds!
Ingredients of Spanish Lentil Soup
When it comes to whipping up a delicious pot of Spanish Lentil Soup, the ingredients play a huge role in creating that warm, comforting flavor we all crave. You don’t need a ton of fancy stuff to make this dish sing; just some staple items and a few fresh ingredients, and you’re good to go.
Plus, lentils are super nutritious, so you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to gather from your pantry and fridge before we get cooking.
Ingredients for Spanish Lentil Soup:
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Now, let’s chat a bit about those ingredients. Lentils are the star of this show, but they can be a little temperamental when it comes to cooking times.
Make sure you rinse them well before tossing them into the pot; nobody wants grit in their soup. The spices—oh, the spices! Smoked paprika and cumin add a lovely warmth and depth, so don’t skip those.
And feel free to play around with the veggies. If you have some spinach or kale lying around, toss it in at the end for a pop of color and nutrition. Cooking should be fun and flexible, right? So grab what you have, and let’s get that soup bubbling.
How to Make Spanish Lentil Soup
Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to plunge into the delicious world of making Spanish Lentil Soup. First things first, grab that 1 cup of dried green or brown lentils and rinse them well under cold water. Trust me, nobody wants to bite into a gritty surprise in their soup.
While those lentils are soaking up some love, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the 1 medium diced onion. Let it sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes tender and starts to smell heavenly. Seriously, there’s something magical about the scent of onions cooking that just warms the heart.
Next, it’s time to add in the 2 chopped carrots and 2 chopped celery stalks. Stir those babies in, letting them mingle with the onion for another 5 minutes. The colors will start to pop, and your kitchen will smell like a cozy little bistro.
Now, throw in the 3 minced garlic cloves and sauté for a minute, just enough for the garlic to release its aromatic goodness. Then, pour in that 14 oz can of diced tomatoes along with 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. This is where the soup starts to come together.
Add the rinsed lentils, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of cumin, and toss in 1 bay leaf for good measure. Bring it all to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until those lentils are tender. You might want to stir occasionally and check the seasoning, adding salt and pepper to taste.
As the soup simmers, take a moment to revel in the delightful aroma wafting through your home. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
Once your lentils are cooked through, feel free to add any fresh greens like spinach or kale for that extra nutrition boost. Just toss them in for the last few minutes of cooking.
When it’s all ready, don’t forget to garnish with some fresh parsley—because who doesn’t love a little pop of color? Grab a bowl, ladle in that comforting soup, and prepare for the warm embrace of homemade goodness. You might just find yourself going back for seconds (or thirds)—and that’s perfectly okay.
Spanish Lentil Soup Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve enjoyed that warm bowl of Spanish Lentil Soup, you might find yourself wanting to customize it to match your taste or what you have on hand.
For a heartier version, toss in diced potatoes or sweet potatoes. If you’re craving something spicy, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. You can also swap the lentils for chickpeas or black beans for a different flavor profile.
Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten it up, and a squeeze of lemon juice adds a revitalizing touch. Don’t hesitate to experiment; that’s the joy of cooking!
What to Serve with Spanish Lentil Soup
There are several delightful options to serve alongside Spanish Lentil Soup that can enhance your meal experience.
I love pairing it with a crusty baguette or warm pita to soak up the flavorful broth.
A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the soup beautifully and adds freshness to the meal.
I often include a side of sautéed greens, like spinach or kale, for extra nutrition.
If you want something heartier, try serving it with rice or quinoa.
Finally, a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of croutons on top adds a nice finishing touch.
Enjoy your meal!
Additional Tips & Notes
While making Spanish Lentil Soup, it’s helpful to keep a few additional tips in mind to elevate your dish.
First, don’t skip soaking the lentils; it speeds up cooking and enhances texture.
I love adding a splash of sherry vinegar at the end for a bright finish. If you want more depth, try sautéing some chorizo before adding the vegetables.
Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can really brighten up the flavors.
Finally, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Trust me, these tips will make your soup irresistible!