This Lentil Soup with Herbs is a warm, comforting dish made with tender lentils and fresh herbs. It’s easy to make and perfect for a healthy, filling meal any day of the week.
I like adding a squeeze of lemon on top to make it brighter. My kitchen smells great while it’s cooking!
I keep some chopped herbs ready to sprinkle on before serving—adds color and a fresh taste in seconds.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Dry Lentils: These form the base of the soup, adding heartiness and texture. I recommend rinsing them well before cooking. You can use red or green lentils—red cook faster and turn softer, while green keep shape longer. Store in an airtight container.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Thyme): They bring bright, fresh flavor. I love chopping fresh parsley right before adding it for maximum taste. If fresh isn’t available, dried herbs like thyme work well—just use less, about a third of fresh amounts.
Garlic & Onion: These aromatics create depth. Sauté them until soft and fragrant for best flavor. If you don’t love garlic, you can reduce the amount or substitute with garlic powder—use half the quantity of fresh garlic.
Vegetable Broth: The cooking liquid that flavors the lentils. I prefer low-sodium broth to control salt. Vegetable soup or even water with added bouillon work in a pinch—just adjust seasoning accordingly.
How do I make sure the lentils cook evenly?
Start by rinsing the lentils to remove dirt. Bring the broth to a boil first, then add lentils. Lower heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot but leave a little space for steam. Cook for 20-30 minutes until tender, stirring occasionally so they don’t stick.
How to Make Lentil Soup with Herbs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils (red or green)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 35 minutes. Total time: 45 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the vegetables
Chop the onion and carrots. Mince the garlic. Set aside.
2. Saute the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot. Add onion and carrots. Cook for 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Add lentils and herbs
Stir in lentils, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes to coat the lentils with flavors.
4. Pour in broth and simmer
Pour in the broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and cover. Simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
5. Finish and Serve
Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with bread if you like.
