Lentil soup is a staple comfort food that’s perfect for fall, winter, and spring. It’s loaded with nutrition including iron and protein. I think it’s so important for the lentils to be super soft and smooth, and just to melt in your mouth. I also think the flavor of the base is critical–rich and savory with lots of tomato.

That’s why I love this recipe. To me, it perfectly combines all of the elements I crave in a satisfying bowl of lentil soup.

This lentil soup is also full if fiber, which will help you feel full and satisfied. It’s low in calories, which will help you maintain or achieve a healthy weight.

Ingredients

For this recipe you’ll need:

• Dried green lentils
• Onion
• Carrots
• Celery
• Fresh or frozen spinach
• Garlic
• Canned diced tomatoes
• Canned tomato sauce
• Vegetable Broth (my favorite is Better Than Bouillon)
• Spices

I love that this recipe is so customizable. For instance, you can swap out the veggies or add others you prefer such as:

• Kale
• Sweet Potatoes
• Celery
• Potatoes
• Butternut squash

How to cook

You can cook this recipe in the instant pot, crockpot, or on the stove.

Instant pot cook times (6 quarts or more):

Place all ingredients in the instant pot and cook on high pressure, sealed, for 15 minutes. Quick release or slow release both work. If you have an instant pot smaller than 6 quarts, halve the recipe.

Crockpot cook times:

Place all ingredients and cook on high for 4 hours or more, or on low for 12 hours or more (overnight).

Stovetop cook times:

Place all ingredients in a medium-sized pot on the stove and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes, or until lentils are soft.

I prefer cooking this lentil soup in the instant pot. I feel that the lentils turn out the softest, and I don’t ever have to stir it or worry about it boiling over. I also love how fast it is, not to mention energy efficient!

How to store & reheat

This lentil soup stores well in the refrigerator or freezer in a sealed container. Reheat in the microwave in 30 second increments until warm, or warm on the stove over medium to low heat stirring frequently.

What goes well with lentil soup

Pair this lentil soup with your favorite bread or simple salad. Don’t forget to top with crushed crackers, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkling of green onions!