There’s something about a warm bowl of soup that just feels like home. Especially on the nights when the weather turns cold and everything feels a little overwhelming.

Back when I started making more nourishing meals, this lentil and vegetable soup quickly became one of my favorites. It’s hearty, comforting, and filled with real ingredients that leave you full—not sluggish. The kind of meal that warms you from the inside out, and makes you feel like you’re taking care of yourself in the simplest way.

Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder. No complicated steps, no fancy ingredients—just clean, cozy comfort in a bowl.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small yellow onion, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 1 zucchini, chopped

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed

• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes

• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1/2 tsp cumin

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach (added at the end)

• Optional: squeeze of lemon before serving

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about 5 minutes, until vegetables start to soften.

2. Stir in zucchini, lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, and spices. Bring to a boil.

3. Reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.

4. Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and let wilt for a few minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or lemon juice to brighten it up.

5. Serve warm and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. This soup freezes beautifully, too.

Why I Love This Soup

This soup is everything I need in one bowl—fiber, protein, comfort, and flavor. I love making a big batch on Sunday and feeling like I’m already ahead for the week.

Back when I felt tired and bloated all the time, meals like this helped me reset—without feeling like I was dieting or depriving myself. It’s the kind of food that feels healing.

And bonus: my kids actually like it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and some whole grain toast on the side.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Makes 4)

• Calories: 290

• Protein: 15g

• Carbohydrates: 36g

• Fiber: 12g

• Fat: 8g