Looking for a hearty and flavorful soup that’s as nutritious as it is delicious? Our Lemony Lentil & Chard Soup is the perfect choice.
This comforting bowl of goodness combines the earthy richness of lentils with the vibrant freshness of Swiss chard, all brightened up with a hint of lemon. In this article, we’ll guide you through crafting this wholesome and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any meal. Let’s dive into a world of flavor!
Ingredients
- 1 cup of dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 6 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 bunch of Swiss chard, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 lemon, zest and juice
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional garnish: Fresh cilantro or parsley, and lemon wedges
Steps to Make
Step 1
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 2
Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 3
Add the ground cumin and ground coriander to the pot. Stir to coat the vegetables with the spices. Allow them to cook for another minute to enhance their flavor.
Step 4
Pour in the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 5
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the lentils simmer for about 25-30 minutes or until they become tender but not mushy.
Step 6
Stir in the chopped Swiss chard leaves and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the chard wilts and becomes tender.
Step 7
While the soup is simmering, zest the lemon and then juice it. You’ll need both the zest and juice for the soup.
Step 8
Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the soup. This will infuse it with a bright and citrusy flavor. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
Step 9
Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper as needed. The amount will depend on the saltiness of your vegetable broth.
Step 10
Ladle the Lemony Lentil & Chard Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty touch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our Lemony Lentil & Chard Soup is a nourishing and vibrant meal that combines the earthiness of lentils, the freshness of Swiss chard, and the zing of lemon. It’s a delightful way to warm up your day and fill your body with wholesome goodness.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lentils for this soup?
While green or brown lentils work well, you can also use red lentils. Keep in mind that red lentils cook faster and may result in a slightly different texture.
What can I substitute for Swiss chard if it’s not available?
You can use spinach, kale, or any leafy greens of your choice as a substitute for Swiss chard.
Can I make this soup ahead of time and store it?
Absolutely! This soup reheats well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Yes, feel free to customize the soup by adding diced tomatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition.
Is there a way to make this soup creamy?
If you’d like a creamy texture, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender before adding the Swiss chard and lemon.
