italian lentil soup

That’s wonderful! A simple, nourishing Italian Lentil Soup is indeed like medicine for the stomach—hearty, easy to digest, and packed with fiber and protein. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and perfect for weekly meal prep!

Here’s a delicious, stomach-soothing version of your lentil soup with a few extra flavor boosts while keeping it simple and wholesome.

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Italian Lentil Soup (Easy & Healing)

Serves 4-6 | Budget-Friendly | Vegan Option

Ingredients

(Keep it simple or customize!)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (or broth for oil-free)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced (optional but recommended)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 can (226g/8oz) diced tomatoes (or crushed)
• 1 cup (200g) dry lentils (green, brown, or red—no soak needed!)
• 4 cups (1L) vegetable broth (or water + 1 bouillon cube)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf (optional but adds depth)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Handful of spinach or kale (optional, for greens)
• Squeeze of lemon juice (brightens flavors!)

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics

• Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté 5 mins until soft.
• Stir in garlic (if using) and tomato paste; cook 1 minute.

1. Add Lentils & Liquids

• Pour in diced tomatoes, lentils, broth, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.

1. Simmer Until Tender

• Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20-25 mins (30 mins for firmer lentils). Stir occasionally.

1. Adjust & Serve

• Discard bay leaf. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon. Add greens if using.

Tips for Stomach-Soothing Benefits

• Red lentils cook faster and break down into a creamier texture (gentler on digestion).
• Add ginger (½ tsp grated) for extra stomach comfort.
• Skip garlic/onions if sensitive—use fennel or leeks instead.

Why It’s Like Medicine

• Lentils = Fiber for gut health, plant-based protein.
• Celery & carrot = Alkaline, anti-inflammatory.
• Warm broth = Hydrating and easy to digest.

Pair with crusty bread or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for richness.

enjoy 😘