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A bowl of homemade lentil soup with fresh herbs, highlighting its calories and nutritional benefits

Low-Calorie Lentil Soup

This nutritious and filling lentil soup is packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. With simple ingredient swaps, you can enjoy a hearty soup while keeping the calorie count low.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Soup
Cuisine Healthy
Servings 4 bowls
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Ladle

Ingredients
  

Soup Base

  • 1 cup red lentils rinsed
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 cups carrots diced
  • 2 cups celery chopped
  • 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1 tsp olive oil for sautéing
  • 1 lemon juiced (for serving)

Instructions
 

  • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  • Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
  • Add the lentils, vegetable broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.
  • Use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup for a creamy texture (optional).
  • Serve hot with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Notes

For extra flavor, garnish with fresh parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes.
Keyword High-Protein, Low-Calorie, Vegetarian