Mediterranean Lentil Soup with Spinach Recipe
Overview
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Mediterranean Lentil Soup with Spinach, a comforting dish packed with nutritious ingredients. This vegan-friendly soup is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for any day of the week.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 hours 20 minutes
- Total Time: 8 hours 40 minutes
- Servings: Makes about 6 servings
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup green lentils, sorted and rinsed
- 2/3 cup brown lentils, sorted and rinsed
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2 celery ribs, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 potato, peeled and diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spinach
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
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Prepare Lentils: Start by sorting the green and brown lentils, then rinse them thoroughly under cold water. This helps remove any debris.
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Combine Ingredients: In a slow cooker (crockpot), add the rinsed lentils, chopped onions, celery ribs, diced carrots, diced potato, minced garlic, cumin seeds, lemon zest, and vegetable broth.
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Cooking in Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with a lid. Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 4-6 hours. The soup is ready when the lentils and vegetables are tender and flavorful.
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Add Spinach: About 20 minutes before serving, stir in the frozen chopped spinach and lemon juice. Continue cooking on HIGH for an additional 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the spinach is heated through and the soup is well combined, it’s ready to serve. Ladle into bowls and enjoy this nutritious Mediterranean Lentil Soup with Spinach hot.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 184.1 per serving
- Total Fat: 0.9g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 65.6mg
- Carbohydrates: 34.3g
- Fiber: 13.4g
- Sugar: 4.2g
- Protein: 11.6g
Tips for Success
- Rinsing Lentils: Always sort and rinse lentils before cooking to ensure they cook evenly and to remove any impurities.
- Slow Cooker Settings: Adjust cooking times based on your slow cooker’s settings. Cooking times may vary slightly.
- Adjusting Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional lemon juice if desired.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days and freezes beautifully for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Flavor Variations
- Spices: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Herbs: Stir in fresh chopped parsley or cilantro just before serving for added freshness.
- Grains: Serve the soup over cooked quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
Why You’ll Love It
This Mediterranean Lentil Soup with Spinach is a standout for several reasons. It’s:
- Nutritious: Packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals.
- Flavorful: The combination of lentils, vegetables, and Mediterranean spices creates a robust and satisfying flavor profile.
- Easy to Make: Simply set it and forget it with the slow cooker method, making it a convenient option for busy days.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main dish with crusty bread or as a starter to a larger meal.
Whether you’re looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet or simply craving a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe delivers on both taste and nutrition. Try making this Mediterranean Lentil Soup with Spinach for your next meal—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household! 🍲
