Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach Recipe

If you are craving a warm, comforting bowl that feels like a big, cozy hug, then this Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach is exactly what you need in your life. This soul-satisfying soup is a vibrant blend of tender red lentils, aromatic spices, and fresh spinach all swirled into a creamy coconut milk base that packs a smoky punch from the smoked paprika. Every spoonful sings with layers of flavor and texture, making it a perfect dish to brighten chilly evenings or to enjoy any time you want something nourishing and utterly delicious.

Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity fool you; each ingredient plays a vital role in building the depth, color, and heartiness of this Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach. From the earthy spices that give it its signature smoky warmth to the creamy coconut milk that balances it perfectly, you’ll appreciate how each element contributes to a harmonious flavor dance.

  • Olive oil: Used to lightly sauté the vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness and creating a flavorful base.
  • Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and texture, serving as a fundamental building block for any savory soup.
  • Carrots: Bring a gentle sweetness and a pop of bright orange color that makes the soup inviting.
  • Celery: Infuses a mild, aromatic flavor that balances the spices beautifully.
  • Garlic: Delivers a fragrant punch, elevating the soup’s savory depth.
  • Smoked paprika: The star smoky ingredient that gives this soup its unforgettable, rich flavor profile.
  • Cumin: Adds warmth and earthiness, rounding out the spice blend elegantly.
  • Turmeric: Offers vibrant color and a mild, slightly peppery flavor while boosting health benefits.
  • Red lentils: The hearty protein-packed base that cooks down to a creamy consistency without losing its body.
  • Vegetable broth: The flavorful liquid that ties all ingredients together with a comforting umami.
  • Full-fat coconut milk: Brings creamy richness and a subtle sweetness that balances the smoky and savory notes.
  • Fresh spinach: Adds a fresh, verdant pop of color and a lovely mild flavor, plus a boost of nutrients.
  • Kosher salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors to perfection.
  • Lemon juice: Brightens the soup with a fresh, tangy lift that cuts through the richness.
  • Garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper: These subtle extra seasonings boost layers of flavor for a well-rounded taste.
  • Honey (optional): A hint of sweetness to balance out the smoky and savory spices as desired.
  • Flatbread, naan, or crispy socca: Perfect for dunking and soaking up every last delicious drop of your soup.

How to Make Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach

Step 1: Sauté the Base Vegetables

Start by warming olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the minced onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté gently until they soften and release their lovely aromas—this usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. This step is crucial because it develops the natural sweetness and builds a flavorful foundation for the soup.

Step 2: Build the Flavor with Garlic and Spices

Next, stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and turmeric alongside the rinsed red lentils. Let everything cook together for about a minute to release the spices’ essential oils, igniting that smoky fragrance that defines this Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach.

Step 3: Simmer with Vegetable Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and gently bring the mixture to a simmer. Partially cover the pot with a lid and let it cook for about 10 minutes, giving it a stir once or twice. This simmering time is what softens the lentils and melds all the layers of flavor into one harmonious whole.

Step 4: Add the Creaminess and Greens

Now it’s time to stir in the full-fat coconut milk, chopped fresh spinach, kosher salt, and the juice from one lemon. These ingredients create that luscious creamy texture and vibrant green flecks that make the soup visually stunning. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a drizzle of honey if you like a touch of sweetness to balance the spices.

Step 5: Final Touch and Serve

Give the soup one last gentle stir to combine everything and allow the spinach to wilt just perfectly. Your Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach is ready to be ladled into bowls and enjoyed with some warm flatbread, naan, or crispy socca for dunking and savoring every flavorful spoonful.

How to Serve Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach

Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro adds a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the smoky depth of the soup. A dollop of plain yogurt or a swirl of extra coconut milk can bring cool creaminess and make each bite silkier. A few toasted pumpkin seeds or chili flakes add texture or a touch of heat if you want to amp things up.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside warm, fluffy naan, crisp socca, or any favorite flatbread for a rustic and satisfying meal. A simple green salad dressed with lemon and olive oil works well to add crispness, while a light grain like quinoa or couscous can round out the meal for more substance.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for an eye-catching presentation that’s as practical as it is fun. You can also layer the soup with a dollop of spiced yogurt and a sprinkle of toasted nuts in a clear glass bowl to show off the gorgeous colors. For a party or potluck, offer the soup in small shot glasses as a flavorful appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to give it a good stir before reheating.

Freezing

You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months without losing much of its character. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat the soup slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or scorching. If the soup thickens too much, just add a splash of water or broth to bring it back to your desired consistency. Add fresh spinach or lemon juice at this point to revive the fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use brown or green lentils instead of red lentils?

Brown or green lentils have a firmer texture and longer cooking time compared to red lentils, which tend to break down and create a creamy texture. If using brown or green lentils, you may need to simmer the soup longer and expect a different mouthfeel.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! This Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach is naturally vegan and gluten-free as long as you serve it with gluten-free bread or flatbreads.

How smoky is this soup really?

The smoked paprika provides a wonderful, warm smoky flavor that is noticeable but not overpowering. It gives the soup character without being too intense, balancing well with the spices and creamy coconut milk.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Absolutely! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce will give the soup a lovely kick. Adjust gradually so you don’t overpower the natural flavors.

What can I substitute for coconut milk if I’m not a fan?

Feel free to use any creamy dairy or plant-based alternative like cashew cream, almond milk, or even regular cream. Just keep in mind that coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and richness that complements the smoky flavors best.

Final Thoughts

This Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach is one of those dishes you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again — whether you want something nourishing, vibrant, or downright tasty. It’s easy to make, full of wholesome ingredients, and endlessly satisfying. So go ahead, dive in, and let this soup warm your heart and soul one spoonful at a time.

Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach Recipe

Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach Recipe


  • Author: Jack
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Smoky Red Lentil Soup with Spinach is a vibrant, hearty, and comforting dish packed with smoky paprika, creamy coconut milk, and fresh spinach. Perfect for a nutritious lunch or dinner, this soup combines the natural earthiness of red lentils with fragrant spices and a touch of lemon for brightness. Served with flatbread or naan, it is a wholesome and satisfying meal that is easy to make and full of flavor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • ½ onion, minced
  • 2 carrots, peeled and minced
  • 2 stalks celery, minced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1½ cups red lentils, rinsed
  • 5 cups vegetable broth
  • 14-ounce can full-fat coconut milk
  • 12 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 6 pieces flatbread, naan, or crispy socca for dipping

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon cumin
  • ½ teaspoon turmeric
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt (more or less to taste)
  • Juice of one lemon
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 teaspoons honey (optional, to taste)

Instructions

  1. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the minced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook gently, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 to 10 minutes.
  2. Add Garlic, Spices, and Lentils: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, turmeric, and rinsed red lentils. Cook for about one minute to release the aromas of the garlic and spices.
  3. Simmer with Broth: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a simmer. Partially cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring once or twice to prevent sticking.
  4. Add Coconut Milk and Spinach: Stir in the coconut milk, chopped spinach, kosher salt, and lemon juice. Add garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and honey to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed, allowing the spinach to wilt and the flavors to meld.
  5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm alongside flatbread, naan, or crispy socca for dipping. Enjoy a wholesome, colorful, and deliciously smoky lentil soup.

Notes

  • You can adjust the salt and honey according to your taste preferences.
  • For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes with the spices.
  • Red lentils cook quickly; avoid overcooking to maintain some texture.
  • This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and freezes nicely for up to 2 months.
  • Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian and vegan-friendly recipe.
  • Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley for added freshness.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Simmering, Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (about 240 ml)
  • Calories: 250
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 600mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Protein: 12g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: smoky lentil soup, red lentil soup, spinach soup, vegetarian soup, coconut milk soup, smoky paprika soup, healthy soup, easy lentil soup

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe rating