Are you ready to embark on a culinary journey to the sun-soaked shores of Greece? This Greek-style lentil soup is not just a meal; it's a warm hug in a bowl that promises to delight your taste buds and nourish your soul. Packed with wholesome ingredients and infused with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs, this comforting dish can be whipped up in just 40 minutes! Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe will have you serving up a hearty and delicious soup that your family will crave time and again. Dive in to discover the secrets of this Mediterranean classic!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Greek
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the lentils under cold water in a fine mesh strainer. This helps remove any dust or debris. Set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue to sauté the mixture for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in the rinsed lentils, followed by the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- After the lentils are cooked, remove the pot from heat. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the soup and stir well to combine. This adds a bright, fresh flavor to the dish.
- Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup.
- Serve the lentil soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Greek-style lentil soup!
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils: Always rinse your lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any dust or impurities. This simple step can enhance the overall flavor of your soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Take your time when sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery. Allowing them to caramelize slightly will deepen the flavors of your soup.
- Experiment with Herbs: While oregano is traditional, feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or bay leaves for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply blend a portion of it with an immersion blender. This will create a creamy texture while still maintaining some whole lentils.
- Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of citrus flavor, consider adding a bit of lemon zest along with the juice. It will elevate the freshness of the soup.
- Garnish Creatively: Serve your soup with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh parsley or dill for added visual appeal and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make a batch in advance for an easy meal prep option!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
