Go Back

Rustic Lentil Soup with Wild Herbs

This lentil soup features tender, velvety lentils simmered with aromatic garlic, thyme, and sprigs of wild rosemary. The final dish has a hearty, thick texture with a rich, earthy flavor, garnished with fresh herbs and a touch of smoked paprika for depth.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Rustic
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup dried lentils rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 carrots peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 sprigs wild rosemary
  • 1 pinch thyme fresh or dried
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Olive oil or fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and the vegetables begin to soften, about 5 minutes, filling the kitchen with a warm, earthy aroma.
  2. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, stirring to coat them with the aromatic oil and vegetables. Cook for another minute to toast the lentils slightly.
  3. Pour in the vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Add the wild rosemary sprigs, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot partially and reduce heat to a simmer.
  4. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 35-40 minutes, occasionally stirring. You'll notice the lentils soften and break down, creating a velvety, thick texture, and the broth deepens in color and aroma.
  5. Remove the wild rosemary sprigs and taste the soup, adjusting salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a smoother consistency, use an immersion blender to gently blend part of the soup, leaving some texture intact.
  6. Stir well to combine, and subtract from heat. Let the soup sit for a few minutes to settle and develop its flavors further.
  7. Serve the lentil soup hot, stirring in a splash of lemon juice just before serving if desired, then garnish with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs and enjoy the rustic, earthy flavors with a hearty slice of bread.

Notes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread and a squeeze of lemon for added brightness. For extra depth, sprinkle with a little grated Parmesan or a dash of apple cider vinegar before serving.