Hearty Lemony Greek Lentil Soup - A Flavorful Comfort!
45
min
368
Calories
4g
Fats
68g
Carbs
23g
Protein
Warm up with this Hearty Lemony Greek Lentil Soup, a delicious blend of lentils and herbs bursting with Mediterranean flavors. A perfect cozy meal for a chilly day, packed with nutrients and under 400 calories!
Ingredients:
Step 1: Preparing the Soup Base
Begin your culinary journey by combining the wholesome brown lentils, water, and chopped carrots in an 8-quart stockpot. Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of dried thyme to infuse its herbal goodness. Cover the pot and set it on a medium heat to let our soup base start its symphony of flavors. This step is critical as it sets the foundation for our hearty soup, ensuring the lentils soften and merge their flavors with the aromatic thyme and sweet carrots.
Pro Tip: Soaking lentils overnight can reduce cooking time.
Step 2: Simmering
After 15 minutes of cooking, it's time to gently coax our soup into a simmer. Lower the heat and allow the pot to bubble softly. This process is where patience pays off, as the gentle simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. The lentils will begin to tenderize, happily swimming in the herb-infused broth.
Pro Tip: Maintain a gentle simmer to avoid overcooking the lentils.
Step 3: Enhancing the Flavors
It's time to elevate our soup with a chorus of Mediterranean flavors. Stir in the vibrant lemon juice, along with the dry basil, fresh thyme, oregano, a pinch of pepper, and salt to taste. Let the pot simmer for another hour, allowing each ingredient to contribute its unique note to this flavorful ensemble. The acidity of the lemon juice not only adds a delightful zing but also enhances the overall taste, making this soup a truly comforting and invigorating experience.
Pro Tip: Adjust lemon juice to taste for more or less zing.
Step 4: Final Touches
In a separate pan, gently sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until tender, then coarsely chop the tomatoes and add them to the soup, along with the onion mixture. This is where our soup truly comes together, with the sautéed onion and garlic adding depth and the tomatoes bringing a fresh, slightly tangy sweetness. Simmer everything for another hour, then adjust the seasoning to your liking. The result is a harmonious blend of flavors that's both nourishing and immensely satisfying.
Pro Tip: Use kitchen scissors to easily chop the tomatoes in the can.
Step 5: Ready to Serve
Your patience is now rewarded with a pot full of Hearty Lemony Greek Lentil Soup, ready to comfort and delight. Serve it steaming hot with a slice of crustye bread and a soft cheese like St. Andre or Cambazola on the side for a truly divine meal. This soup not only warms the body on a chilly day but also brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your table. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with family and friends, and let this dish become a cherished part of your recipe collection.
Pro Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
