Healthy Creamy Red Lentil Soup

Creamy red lentil soup is the perfect choice for cold days when you need a warm and comforting meal. While traditional lentil soup may be more common, this version made with red lentils is just as delicious, if not more so, and offers a great variation for your weekend cooking.

Red lentils are often overlooked, but they deserve more attention. They are incredibly healthy, packed with vitamins B, iron, minerals, and antioxidants. Red lentils are also a great source of protein, contain almost no fat, and are an excellent source of fiber.

Including red lentils in your diet can lower the risk of heart disease, help reduce blood pressure, and boost your immune system.

This soup is incredibly easy to prepare, with the base consisting of onion, carrots, and of course, red lentils. The tomato paste adds a wonderful flavor and vibrant color to the soup. One of the best parts about red lentils is that they don’t need to be soaked overnight; they cook to a tender consistency in just about 30 minutes.

The Secret to Creamy Soup

To give this red lentil soup its creamy texture, we add a potato. Adding one or two potatoes to creamy soups gives them a richer, thicker consistency. Simply peel and dice a large potato, then add it to the soup along with the lentils.

To finish, prepare a chili oil or use your favorite chili sauce, like Sriracha, for an extra kick of heat.

Blend or Leave Chunky: Your Choice

If you prefer soups with a chunkier texture, you don’t have to blend this soup. However, I love creamy soups, especially during the colder months. Serve this soup with a slice of fresh, crusty bread, and you have yourself a comforting and satisfying meal.

This creamy red lentil soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Whether blended to creamy perfection or served chunky, it’s a fantastic addition to your meal rotation.

Why You Should Include Red Lentils in Your Diet

• Red lentils are nutrient-rich: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, lentils provide a wide range of health benefits, including improving heart health and reducing blood pressure.
• High in protein: Lentils are a great plant-based source of protein, making them perfect for vegetarians and vegans.
• Low in fat: Lentils contain almost no fat, making them a healthy addition to any diet.
• Quick to cook: Unlike other legumes, red lentils don’t need to be soaked and can be cooked to perfection in about 30 minutes.

Give this healthy creamy red lentil soup a try and enjoy a bowl of warm, nourishing goodness that’s good for both your body and soul.