There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of lentil soup with carrots and celery to wrap around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly day. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen, filling every corner with a comforting, earthy scent that whispers, “Lunch or dinner is going to be amazing!” This hearty dish not only warms you up but also feeds your soul and gives you the energy to tackle… well, whatever Netflix series you’ve been binging.

As the steam rises from your bowl, it brings with it memories of family gatherings and chilly evenings spent in good company. I remember my grandma stirring her giant pot of lentil soup while regaling us with stories that were just as rich and flavorful. The vibrant colors of carrots and celery danced in the mix, promising an explosion of taste that would make even the pickiest eaters reconsider their life choices. Whether it’s a rainy Sunday or a bustling weekday, this lentil soup is perfect for any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This lentil soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor that gets better the longer it simmers
- You can customize it based on what veggies you have lurking in your fridge
- Its beautiful mix of colors makes for a visually pleasing dish that everyone will love
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a delightful side!
Ingredients for Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Green or Brown Lentils: These sturdy legumes hold their shape during cooking and provide a hearty texture.
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Carrots: Opt for fresh, vibrant carrots; they add sweetness and color to the soup.
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Celery: Use crisp celery for its refreshing crunch and aromatic flavor.
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Onion: A medium onion adds depth and sweetness when sautéed.
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Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse the soup with warmth and robust flavor.
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Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while enhancing flavor.
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Dried Thyme: This herb complements the earthiness of lentils beautifully.
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Bay Leaf: A couple of bay leaves provide aromatic notes that elevate the entire dish.
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Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps sauté the vegetables until they’re perfectly tender.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Start by heating two tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté until everything softens—about five minutes—while inhaling that heavenly aroma!
Step 2: Add Garlic
Stir in minced garlic and cook for about one minute more until fragrant. Remember, burnt garlic is like an unwanted guest at a party; you don’t want it crashing your flavor fiesta!
Step 3: Introduce Lentils
Add rinsed green or brown lentils into the pot along with dried thyme and bay leaves. Stir everything together as if you’re conducting an orchestra of flavors ready to perform.
Step 4: Pour in Broth
Carefully pour in six cups of vegetable broth while stirring gently. Bring this pot of goodness to a boil before reducing heat to low and letting it simmer for about thirty minutes.
Step 5: Season
After thirty minutes, taste your creation! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as necessary because nobody likes bland food—unless you’re serving plain oatmeal.
Step 6: Serve
Remove bay leaves before ladling into bowls. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping—trust me; it’s divine!
So there you have it! A heartwarming lentil soup with carrots and celery ready to be devoured. Enjoy each spoonful knowing you just made something truly nourishing—both for your body and spirit!
You Must Know
- This delightful lentil soup with carrots and celery is more than a recipe; it’s a hug in a bowl
- Packed with nutrients and flavor, it warms your soul and is perfect for meal prep
- Customize it to suit your taste, making it a versatile option for any dinner table
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add carrots and celery. Stir in rinsed lentils, followed by broth and spices. Let it simmer gently while you sip a cup of tea or plot world domination.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Swap out carrots for sweet potatoes or add a splash of coconut milk for creaminess. Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrition—and to feel like you’ve accomplished something healthy!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain that luscious texture—because nobody likes dry soup!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure to rinse lentils before cooking to remove any debris
- For added depth, consider using vegetable broth instead of water
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend part of it once cooked for a creamy consistency
There was that one chilly evening when I served this lentil soup with carrots and celery at a family gathering. My nephew declared it “the best soup ever,” which only fueled my desire to make it even more often!
FAQs :
What are the health benefits of Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery?
Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery offers numerous health benefits. Lentils are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. They help in digestion and promote heart health. Carrots provide beta-carotene, which is beneficial for eye health, while celery adds hydration and essential minerals. Together, these ingredients create a nourishing dish that can support weight management and boost your immune system.
How long does it take to make Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery?
You can prepare Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery in about 30 to 40 minutes. Start by sautéing the vegetables for about 10 minutes, then add lentils and broth. Allow the soup to simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are tender. This quick cooking time makes it perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal. For more inspiration, check out this Cooking Tips recipe.
Can I freeze Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery?
Yes, you can freeze Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery! After cooking, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove or microwave for a quick meal.
What variations can I try with Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery?
Feel free to customize your Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery! You can add other vegetables like spinach or potatoes for extra nutrition. Spice it up with herbs such as thyme or bay leaves for enhanced flavor. For a creamier texture, blend part of the soup after cooking or stir in coconut milk to change things up while maintaining its healthy qualities. For more inspiration, check out this Main Dishes recipe.
Conclusion for Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery :
In conclusion, Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery is not only easy to prepare but also packed with nutritional benefits. The combination of lentils, carrots, and celery delivers a hearty meal that supports overall health. With its quick cooking time and versatility, this soup is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Enjoy this wholesome dish as a comforting option any day of the week!

Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 6 portions 1x
Description
Warm up with this comforting Lentil Soup with Carrots and Celery, a hearty dish that nourishes both body and soul. This delightful soup blends earthy lentils, sweet carrots, and crisp celery into a bowl of goodness perfect for chilly days or busy weeknights. Enjoy the rich flavors as they simmer together, filling your home with a cozy aroma. Easy to customize and packed with nutrients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onions for about 3 minutes until translucent.
- Add diced carrots and celery; cook for an additional 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for one more minute.
- Add rinsed lentils, thyme, and bay leaves. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low; let simmer for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 14g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg