Discovering the Hearty Greek Lentil Soup
My Favorite is Hearty Greek Lentil Soup and I remember the first time I tasted this Hearty Greek Lentil Soup. It was a chilly afternoon in Athens, and I was wandering through a bustling market filled with the aroma of fresh herbs and spices. I stopped at a small, cozy tavern tucked away in a quiet corner, where the owner invited me in for a warm meal. The soup she served was simple yet rich in flavor, packed with lentils and fresh vegetables. From the very first spoonful, I knew I had to bring this recipe back home.
A Healthy and Comforting Tradition
Back in my kitchen, I set out to recreate that comforting bowl of soup. Lentils, I learned, are a staple in many Greek households, providing a hearty source of protein and iron. Combined with sweet onions, carrots, and celery, the soup not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. I added my own twist by using vegetable broth and a hint of tomato sauce, which brought out the natural sweetness of the veggies and added a delightful tang. The best part? It’s vegetarian, gluten-free, and low in fat—perfect for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor.
Easy to Make, Loved by All
What I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to make. In just 45 minutes, you can have a pot of this delicious soup ready to enjoy. It’s become a family favorite in our household, especially on busy weeknights when we want something quick yet satisfying. The kids love it too, which is a bonus! I often serve it with a drizzle of lemon juice or a splash of hot sauce for an extra kick. The simplicity of the ingredients means that it’s also budget-friendly, making it an ideal go-to recipe when you want something nutritious and filling.
A Soup for Every Occasion
Over the years, this Hearty Greek Lentil Soup has become more than just a recipe; it’s a tradition in our home. Whether it’s a rainy day or a special family dinner, this soup is always on the menu. It’s a reminder of that small tavern in Athens and the warmth that good food can bring. I love how versatile it is—sometimes I’ll toss in extra veggies like spinach or zucchini, or pair it with crusty bread for a complete meal. No matter how you enjoy it, this soup is sure to bring a bit of Greek comfort to your table.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes-Hearty Greek Lentil Soup
- For a richer flavor, consider sautéing the vegetables in olive oil instead of vegetable broth. This will add a subtle depth and enhance the overall taste of the soup.
- To ensure the lentils cook evenly and retain a slight bite, do not overcook them during the initial boiling. They should be slightly firm when added to the soup to avoid becoming mushy.
- Add the seasonings (salt, pepper, oregano) gradually as you cook, tasting and adjusting as needed. This helps to build layers of flavor rather than overwhelming the dish at the end.
- If you want a heartier soup, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar during the simmering process. This can give the broth a more complex and robust flavor.
- Feel free to add leafy greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. These will wilt quickly and add extra nutrients to the soup without altering the flavor profile too much.
- Serve the soup with a wedge of lemon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill on top for a fresh, bright finish. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- If you plan to freeze the soup, cook the lentils until they are just tender. This will prevent them from becoming too soft when reheated.
Hearty Greek Lentil Soup
This Hearty Greek Lentil Soup is a simple yet delicious recipe that brings the comfort of home to your table. Packed with protein, iron, and veggies, it’s a nutritious meal that even kids will love. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this traditional Greek soup is easy to make and full of flavor. Try it today and enjoy a bowl of wholesome goodness!
4
bowls15
minutes30
minutes250
kcal45
minutesKeep the screen of your device on
Ingredients
- Lentils
1 cup dried lentils (French green or brown preferred)
- Vegetables
1 medium sweet onion, peeled and chopped
2 large carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
- Liquids
4 cups vegetable broth (plus extra for sautéing)
2-4 tablespoons tomato sauce
- Seasonings
3 bay leaves
Himalayan pink salt to taste
Ground black pepper to taste
Dried oregano to taste
- Optional Toppings
White vinegar for drizzling
Lemon juice for drizzling
Hot sauce for drizzling
Directions
- Prepare Lentils – Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Place them in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for about 3 minutes until partially done. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables – In a large nonstick pan, heat a small amount of vegetable broth over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Serve – Ladle the soup into bowls and drizzle with white vinegar or lemon juice if desired. For an extra kick, add a touch of hot sauce.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- Nonstick Pan
- colander
- mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 250kcal
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Protein: 12g
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 500mg
- Potassium: 600mg
- Fiber: 15g
- Sugar: 5g
- Vitamin A: 120IU
- Vitamin C: 20mg
- Calcium: 8mg
- Iron: 25mg
FAQ-Hearty Greek Lentil Soup
Can I use canned lentils instead of dried lentils?
Yes, you can use canned lentils to save time. Just rinse them well and add them directly to the soup. Since they are already cooked, reduce the simmering time to about 10 minutes.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the lentils are tender.
Is this soup suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, this soup is great for meal prepping. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and the flavors often deepen after a day or two.
What can I substitute if I don’t have vegetable broth?
You can use water with a bouillon cube or substitute with chicken broth if you’re not following a vegetarian diet. Just adjust the seasoning as needed.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes, if you’d like to add protein, diced chicken or sausage can be sautéed with the vegetables. Alternatively, you could stir in cooked, shredded chicken towards the end of cooking.
