Vegan Globetrotter is supported by our audience. When you purchase through one of our links, we may earn a small affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Your cost is not affected.
==================
Italian Lentil Soup
~ a favorite Mediterranean Cuisine ~
Although many areas claim a long history of cooking with lentils, the Mediterranean cuisine featured in this Italian Lentil Soup might be the most widely recognized. And while you might have a can of Italian lentil soup in your pantry, we are confident that once you try this easy crockpot recipe, you will never want to grab the can opener again!
Packed with nutrients, these little legumes offer an inexpensive substitute for meats. Although all beans contain protein and fiber, we like the quick cooking times and versatility of lentils. Try incorporating lentils into your healthy diet!
Cooking Italian Lentil Soup
Our Italian Lentil Soup recipe uses few ingredients slow cooked to bring out the best of flavors. We believe this gives the best authentic soup, as traditional cooks cook lentil soup over a slow heat throughout the day. However, should you choose to cook in a pot on your stovetop, we’ve included the alternative directions.
Variety in life: Options for Italian Lentil Soup
We are confident you will enjoy this hearty Italian Lentil Soup recipe. However, you might also want to vary the recipe to suit your own preferences. We’ve included a few options below. As with any of our recipes, explore and experiment, using our recipes as your starting point. And consider adding a side salad of fresh greens to the menu. Fresh bread also adds a balance to a dinner featuring soup.
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried lentils (brown or green preferred)
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup onion (chopped)
- 1/2 cup celery (chopped)
- 1/4 cup carrot (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (crushed and minced)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried leaf oregano
- 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
- 3 large Roma tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons wine vinegar (red, white, or sherry)
Crock Pot Directions
- Rinse lentils to remove any dirt and debris.
- Put all ingredients except wine vinegar into large crock pot (slow cooker)
- Cook on low for about 7-8 hours or on high for about 5 hours
- Stir in wine vinegar and let simmer for about 5 minutes before serving.
- (optional) To thicken, use a blender or food processor to puree half of the cooked ingredients, then stir back into the soup.
- Garnish with lime or lemon wedge, sprig of parsley or mint
Stove Top Directions
- Rinse lentils to remove any dirt and debris.
- Put onion, garlic, celery, and carrot in a large pot with 1/2 cup of broth
- cast iron is perfect!
- a large stock pot also works
- Cook until onion is soft and translucent, stirring occasionally
- Add remaining ingredients, except vinegar.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cook for about 45 minutes, until lentils are well done.
- Stir in wine vinegar and let simmer for about 5 minutes before serving.
- (optional) To thicken, use a blender or food processor to puree half of the cooked ingredients, then stir back into the soup.
- Garnish with lime or lemon wedge, sprig of parsley or mint.
Options to add to Italian Lentil Soup
- Chopped spinach or kale
- Additional spices such as thyme, marjoram, rosemary
- peas
- garbanzo beans
- shredded tofu, tempeh, or gluten
- diced potatoes
- lemon or lime slice or wedge
- sprigs of mint or parsley
Serve with:
- crusted whole grain bread
- homemade whole grain crackers
- mixed green salad
Chopping an onion
Professional chefs make chopping onions seem so easy! Learn this easy technique in the short video.
Don't miss out
when new recipes and information are added!
Join our newsletter for free recipes,
healthy living inspiration, and special offers
You have Successfully Subscribed!