Green Lentil Soup

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 9/29/2025
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy | Gluten Free | Diabetic | Vegan | Vegetarian
Green Lentil Soup
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

We believe a perfect weeknight meal should be simple, satisfying, and packed with goodness. This Green Lentil Soup checks every box. It’s a comforting, one-pot dish that delivers incredible flavor and nutrition in under 40 minutes. You'll love how easy it is to prepare a meal that tastes this good. For more hearty options, explore our Heart Healthy Soup Recipes.

Total Time
35 minutes
Servings
10
Calories
172

What Makes This Green Lentil Soup Healthy

This soup is a powerhouse of plant-based nutrition. It's packed with fiber to support digestive health and keep you feeling full, and provides 11 grams of protein per serving. With minimal saturated fat and cholesterol, it's an excellent choice for a heart-healthy diet.

Key Health Highlights

  • Excellent Source of Fiber: Contains 13 grams of dietary fiber per serving.
  • Rich in Plant-Based Protein: Provides 11 grams of protein to support muscle health.
  • Low in Saturated Fat: A heart-smart choice with 0 grams of saturated fat.
  • Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian, and suitable for a diabetic diet.

FAQs About Green Lentil Soup

Yes, it is very healthy. It's an excellent source of plant-based protein, dietary fiber, and essential minerals like iron and folate, while being low in fat and calories.

Green lentils hold their shape better when cooked, giving the soup a firmer texture. Brown lentils tend to become softer and can make the soup creamier. The flavor is very similar.

No, you do not need to soak green lentils before making soup. Just be sure to rinse them well to remove any debris.

The soup will naturally thicken as it cools. For a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or mash some lentils against the side of the pot.

To enhance the flavor, try adding a bay leaf during cooking, a splash of red wine vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end, or garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

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Ingredients

Recipe yields 10 servings

Helpful How-To Video

Directions

  1. Step 1

    In a large pot, heat the oil over high heat. Add the onion, carrots, celery and garlic. Reduce the heat to low and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the tomato and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.

  2. Step 2

    Add the lentils, thyme, nutmeg, pepper, and salt and stir to combine. Add the broth and water, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 15 to 20 minutes. Stir in the vinegar and serve.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
3/4 cup

172
Calories
2
g
Fat
0
mg
Cholesterol
625
mg
Sodium
29
g
Carbs
0
g
Sat. Fat
13
g
Fiber
11
g
Protein

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Instant Pot: Sauté vegetables on the 'Sauté' function. Add remaining ingredients, secure the lid, and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Allow a 10-minute natural release.
  • Slow Cooker: Sauté vegetables in a separate pan, then transfer to the slow cooker with all other ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Serving & Storage Tips

  • Serving: Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
  • Freezing: The soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

  • For a different texture: Brown or red lentils can be used, but note that red lentils will cook faster and result in a softer soup.

  • Add leafy greens: Stir in a few handfuls of fresh spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.

  • For a creamy version: Add a splash of full-fat coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier broth.

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