Name: Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1/4 cup water or 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 to 3 carrots, diced; 2 celery ribs, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup green beans, chopped; 1 can diced tomatoes; 1 lb baby potatoes, diced; 1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils; 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon curry powder; 6 cups water or vegetable broth; 2 handfuls baby spinach or kale; Juice of 1 lemon; 1/2 cup parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe

This Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup delivers everything you want in a comforting bowl of soup: rich flavor, satisfying texture, and wholesome ingredients that keep you full for hours. Packed with vegetables, protein-rich lentils, and warm spices, this one-pot recipe comes together with minimal effort and simple pantry staples. Even better, it works beautifully for batch cooking, busy weeknights, or cozy weekends at home. If you love soups that feel substantial without feeling heavy, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

Story

I started making Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup years ago when I needed a reliable, no-fail meal that worked for lunch, dinner, and leftovers. Lentils always delivered the hearty texture I wanted, while vegetables kept the soup balanced and nourishing. Over time, this version became my go-to because it stays oil free if needed, reheats beautifully for meal prep, and satisfies even non-vegan eaters. The combination of lentils, potatoes, and vegetables creates a true vegetable soup that feels filling, comforting, and practical for everyday cooking.

Ingredients

1/4 cup water or 2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2–3 carrots (about 1 cup), diced
2 celery ribs, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
1 lb baby potatoes, diced
1 1/2 cups dried brown or green lentils
1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon curry powder
6 cups water or low-sodium vegetable broth
2 handfuls baby spinach or kale
Juice of 1 lemon
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Mineral salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

Dice the onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes evenly so they cook at the same rate. Mince the garlic and rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water. Chop the green beans into bite-sized pieces and set aside the leafy greens for later to keep them vibrant.

Cooking Instructions

Heat the water or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic for about five minutes until fragrant. Stir in the paprika, cumin, and curry, cooking briefly to release their aroma. Add the green beans, tomatoes, potatoes, lentils, and broth, then bring everything to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 30 to 35 minutes until the lentils and potatoes turn tender, then stir in the greens, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.

Tips for Perfect Results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid adding the leafy greens too early, as they lose color and texture with long cooking. Also, skip over-stirring, which can break down the lentils too much and make the soup overly thick.

Pro Tips for Better Flavor

Use vegetable broth instead of water for deeper flavor, and finish with fresh lemon juice to brighten the entire pot. This soup also tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Serving and Storage

How to Serve

Serve this soup hot with crusty bread, vegan cornbread, or warm naan. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon add a fresh finishing touch.

How to Store Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to three months and reheat gently on the stovetop.

Conclusion

This Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup proves that simple ingredients can create deeply satisfying meals. With its comforting texture, balanced nutrition, and flexible cooking options, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Make a big pot and enjoy stress-free meals all week.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup gluten free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten free, as lentils and vegetables contain no gluten.

Is this soup high in protein?

Lentils provide plant-based protein and fiber, making this soup naturally high protein and very filling.

Can I freeze vegan lentil soup?

Absolutely. This soup freezes well for up to three months without losing texture or flavor.