Here’s a simple and hearty Minestrone Lentil Soup recipe that’s packed with vegetables, lentils, and Italian flavors. It’s perfect for a comforting meal!
Minestrone Lentil Soup Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced (optional)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini, elbow, or small shells)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and zucchini (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add Tomatoes and Lentils:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir to combine.
- Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, smoked paprika (if using), and bay leaf. Stir well.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Cook Pasta:
- While the soup is simmering, cook the pasta separately according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. (This prevents the pasta from absorbing too much broth in the soup.)
- Add Greens and Pasta:
- Once the lentils are tender, stir in the spinach or kale and cooked pasta. Let the greens wilt for 2-3 minutes.
- Season and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
Tips:
- For a thicker soup, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or lemon juice at the end for a bright flavor boost.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. The pasta may absorb more broth over time, so add a little water or broth when reheating.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Minestrone Lentil Soup! 🥣
