Whether you’re searching what to eat with lentil soup to balance its richness or a more substantial alternative to make a full meal, lentil soup is a nourishing and adaptable dish that goes well with a range of sides. The following are some suggestions for meals to pair with lentil soup:
| Recipe | Lentil Soup |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
| Servings | 4-6 servings |
| Ingredients | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dried lentils | 1 cup |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Carrots, diced | 2 medium |
| Celery stalks, diced | 2 |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Diced tomatoes (canned) | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Vegetable or chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Ground cumin | 2 teaspoons |
| Ground turmeric | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground cinnamon (optional) | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon juice (optional) | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
| Instructions | Steps |
|---|---|
| 1. Sauté vegetables | Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened (5-7 minutes). |
| 2. Add spices | Add cumin, turmeric, paprika, and cinnamon (if using). Stir and cook for another minute. |
| 3. Add lentils and broth | Add lentils, diced tomatoes (with juices), and broth. Stir to combine. Add bay leaf. |
| 4. Simmer | Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally. |
| 5. Season and finish | Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, and more spices if desired. Stir in lemon juice (optional). |
| 6. Serve | Remove bay leaf, garnish with parsley, and serve warm. |
| Notes | Tips |
|---|---|
| Make ahead | Soup can be stored in the fridge for 4-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. |
| Spicy version | Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat. |
| Vegetarian/Vegan | Use vegetable broth for a vegan version. |
| Creamy version | For a creamier soup, mash some of the lentils or blend part of the soup with an immersion blender. |
This table provides a clear, concise overview of the ingredients, steps, and tips for making lentil soup.
Crusty Bread: 1.
Bread For dipping into lentil soup, a rustic, crusty baguette or sourdough bread is ideal. Every bite is enhanced by the bread’s absorption of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: Serve garlic bread with lentil soup for extra taste. The earthy aromas of the soup are well complemented by the buttery, garlicky flavor.
- Pita Bread: To scoop up the soup, tear off some soft, warm pita bread.
2. Salad – Mixed Green Salad:
To counterbalance the richness of the soup, try a crisp, light salad made with mixed greens, cucumber, and a zesty vinaigrette.
The warmth of the soup might be counterbalanced by a crisp and refreshing cucumber and tomato salad dressed with yogurt or lemon.
- Kale Caesar Salad: The savory tastes of lentil soup are enhanced with a substantial kale salad with crunchy croutons and a creamy dressing.
3. Cheese – Cheese bread:
Lentil soup make a satisfying combination with a slice of cheese-covered bread, such as a grilled cheese sandwich or toasted cheese baguette.
Parmesan: For more flavor and richness, top the soup with freshly grated Parmesan or crumbled feta right before serving.
- Goat Cheese: The earthy lentils pair well with the creamy, tangy accent that soft goat cheese brings.
4. Grains – Rice: White, brown, or basmati rice can make a delicious side dish. The rice complements the lentils and absorbs the broth.
Quinoa: Quinoa is a light and nutrient-dense grain that can be added to soup or eaten as a side dish.
- Couscous: The rich soup complements the light, fluffy couscous, which also adds texture.
5. Roasted or Steamed Vegetables – Roasted Vegetables:
The naturally sweet taste and texture of roasted root vegetables, such as butternut squash, sweet potatoes, or carrots, contrasts with the savory soup.
Steamed Broccoli or Cauliflower: Vegetables that are lightly steamed can improve the dish and add a healthy component.
Sauteed Spinach or Kale: Sautéed greens enhance the soup’s flavors by adding depth and richness.
6. Pickled or Fermented Foods – Pickles:
The earthy soup may be sharply contrasted with the salty and acidic taste of pickles (like cucumber or dill pickles).
- Kimchi or Sauerkraut: If you like a little fermentation, these condiments give lentils a spicy, probiotic boost.
7. Protein Additions – Grilled Chicken:
Serve roasted chicken thighs or grilled chicken breast with the soup for a heartier supper.
Hard-Boiled Eggs: To add extra protein and richness, place a hard-boiled egg on top of the soup or serve it as a side dish.
Tofu: You may add crispy or sautéed tofu on the side for a vegetarian or vegan option, or you can whisk it into the soup to add texture.
8. Mediterranean-Style Sides – Hummus:
Accompany your soup with a small cup of creamy hummus and pita bread or vegetable sticks.
The flavors of lentil soup are enhanced by the refreshing side dish known as tabbouleh, which is a fresh parsley and bulgur salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and lemon.
- Olives: A little bowl of olives gives the earthy soup a salty, saline taste.
9. Simple Dips – Yogurt:
To add a creamy, tangy contrast to the soup, spread a dollop of plain yogurt (or flavored yogurt like tzatziki) on top.
Avocado: Lentil soup is a great match for the creamy texture and fresh flavor of sliced avocado or guacamole.
Suggestions for Serving
Although lentil soup is a fantastic one-pot dinner, it can be made into a filling and well-rounded supper by serving it with these sides. The combinations can be customized to your preferences based on whether you like filling or light sides.
Here are some suggestions for improving your meal: Squeeze a lemon over the soup to add more brightness.
For a fragrant finishing touch, sprinkle fresh herbs like cilantro, parsley, or dill on top.
Conclusion
There are many ways to enjoy lentil soup, whether you like something light and refreshing like a green salad or something heartier like rice or garlic toast. In addition to enhancing the soup’s flavors, these sides complete the dish and add to its deliciousness and satisfaction.
1. Do I need to soak lentils before cooking?
2. Can I make lentil soup in advance?
3. How can I make lentil soup spicier?
4. Can I add meat to lentil soup?
5. How long can I store lentil soup?
how to make Lentil Soup:
Nothing is more reassuring than a bowl of homemade lentil soup when the winter months approach and the days grow colder and shorter. It is nutrient-dense, nutritious, and very simple to prepare. It’s also among the cheapest foods you can make, so it’s ideal for people who want to eat healthily without going over budget.
