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This post is all Slow Cooker Veggie-Packed Lentil Soup Recipe.
This slow cooker lentil soup is a nutritious and hearty dish loaded with vegetables and protein-rich lentils. It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner.
The recipe is simple to follow and allows for flexibility in ingredient choices making it easy to adapt to your taste or what you have on hand.
Warm and Nourishing Lentil Soup
This lentil soup is a comforting dish that brings warmth to any meal. Packed with vibrant vegetables like carrots, celery, and spinach, it offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The slow cooking method allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a rich, hearty broth that is both satisfying and nutritious.
As the soup simmers, the aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. The bright colors of the vegetables not only make the dish visually appealing but also provide essential nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for any occasion.
Simple Preparation for a Hearty Meal
Preparing this soup is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Start by chopping the vegetables and gathering the ingredients. The lentils, combined with fresh produce, create a filling meal that is perfect for lunch or dinner.
Once everything is in the slow cooker, simply set it to low and let it work its magic for several hours. This hands-off approach allows you to focus on other tasks while the soup develops its flavors.
Flavorful Ingredients That Shine
The combination of lentils, diced tomatoes, and a medley of vegetables creates a robust flavor profile. Seasoned with thyme and cumin, the soup is elevated with aromatic spices that complement the natural sweetness of the carrots and the earthiness of the lentils.
Adding fresh spinach or kale towards the end of the cooking process not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds a vibrant green color to the dish. This final touch ensures that the greens remain bright and slightly crisp, enhancing the overall texture.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This lentil soup is an excellent option for meal prep. With a total cooking time of 6-8 hours, it can be prepared in advance and stored for later use. Simply portion it out into containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Each serving is hearty enough to satisfy hunger while being light on calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Reheating the soup is a breeze, and it tastes just as delicious the next day.
A Cozy Kitchen Experience
The setting of a cozy kitchen enhances the experience of enjoying this lentil soup. Picture a rustic wooden spoon resting beside the bowl, ready for serving. The slow cooker, a reliable kitchen companion, stands in the background, a testament to the ease of preparing this comforting dish.
Gathering around the table to share a warm bowl of soup creates a sense of community and connection. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this lentil soup is sure to be a hit, warming both hearts and bellies.
Garnishing for a Personal Touch
To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing the soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile, making each spoonful even more enjoyable.
Feel free to customize the garnishes based on personal preferences. A dash of lemon juice or a swirl of olive oil can add brightness, while a sprinkle of chili flakes can introduce a hint of heat. The possibilities are endless, allowing everyone to make the soup their own.
Hearty Lentil Soup in a Slow Cooker
This lentil soup combines lentils, carrots, celery, and tomatoes, simmered in vegetable broth for a rich flavor. The slow cooker method allows the ingredients to meld beautifully, and the soup is ready in about 6-8 hours.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped (added at the end)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the carrots, celery, onion, and mince the garlic.
- Combine Ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the lentils, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, cumin, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Cook: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.
- Add Greens: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach or kale and let it wilt.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 180kcal
- Fat: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
