Lemon Turmeric Lentil Soup
Lemon Turmeric Lentil Soup is a vibrant, wholesome, and immune-boosting soup that combines protein-rich red lentils with anti-inflammatory turmeric and zesty lemon juice. This comforting, easy-to-make vegan soup is light, nourishing, and perfect for recovery or anytime you want a gentle, flavorful meal that supports overall wellness.
- Author: Julia
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Healthy, Vegan
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed thoroughly
- 1 tablespoon fresh turmeric or 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Salt, to taste
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step builds the soup’s flavorful foundation.
- Add Turmeric and Spices: Stir in fresh or ground turmeric and ground black pepper. Cook the spices for about 1 minute, allowing them to toast gently to unlock their aroma and enhance their health benefits.
- Incorporate Lentils and Broth: Add the rinsed red lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, until the lentils are tender and starting to break down.
- Add Lemon Juice and Season: Remove the pot from heat. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and season with salt to taste. The lemon juice brightens the flavor profile and boosts vitamin C content.
- Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully purée the soup according to your desired texture. Alternatively, leave it chunky if you prefer more texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh and vibrant finish.
Notes
- Toast spices briefly in oil to enhance flavor and healing properties.
- Add lemon juice at the end to preserve its fresh brightness.
- Rinse lentils well to prevent cloudiness and improve digestibility.
- Include black pepper to increase curcumin absorption from turmeric.
- Adjust soup thickness by adding more broth or simmering longer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lemon turmeric lentil soup, immune boosting soup, vegan soup, gluten free, healthy lentil soup, turmeric soup, lemon soup, easy lentil soup