Description
This Slow Cooker Lentil Soup is the ultimate set it and forget it recipe, delivering a hearty, flavorful bowl of comfort that is as good for your body as it is for your soul. Packed with plant based protein and fiber, this diabetic friendly soup keeps you full and satisfied.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 6 cups low sodium vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 3 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice
Instructions
- For the deepest flavor, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until they begin to soften, about 5 7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. This step is optional but highly recommended.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover and cook on Low for 6 8 hours or on High for 3 4 hours. The soup is ready when the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- About 15 minutes before serving, stir in the fresh spinach or kale until it wilts. Remove the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish if desired.
Notes
This soup is a champion when it comes to leftovers and meal prep. Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer safe containers for easy meals. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of broth or water as the lentils will continue to absorb liquid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6-8 hours
- Category: Soups
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 8g
- Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 20g
- Protein: 18g