Hearty Lentil Soup: A Cozy Dinner for Pennies

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When the temperature drops, there’s nothing like a steaming bowl of Hearty Lentil Soup to warm you up. Best of all, it’s dirt cheap to make. Lentils are a budget-friendly powerhouse packed with protein, fiber, and nutrients, making this soup both healthy and satisfying.

Why This Recipe Works for Budget Foodies

• Super Affordable: Lentils are cheap, and so are the veggies used in this recipe.
• Nutrient-Dense: Packed with protein, iron, and essential vitamins.
• Versatile: Can be adjusted to suit vegan, vegetarian, or meat-based diets.
• Easy to Make: One pot, simple ingredients, and minimal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Lentils: 1 cup (brown, green, or red lentils all work).
• Onion: 1 medium, diced.
• Carrots: 2, chopped.
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons.
• Canned Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz), diced.
• Vegetable Broth: 4 cups (or chicken broth if you prefer).
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons.
• Salt and Pepper: To taste.
• Bay Leaf: 1 (optional but adds great flavor).
• Spinach or Kale: 2 cups (optional).
• Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (optional but brightens the flavor).

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Lentils and Tomatoes:
   • Stir in the lentils, tomato paste, canned tomatoes, and bay leaf (if using).
   • Pour in the broth and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer:
   • Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for about 30 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Add Greens and Season:
   • If using spinach or kale, stir it in and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
   • Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
5. Serve:
   • Remove bay leaf before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Budget-Friendly Tips

• Buy Lentils in Bulk: They’re usually cheaper when bought in bulk and store well for months.
• Use Frozen Veggies: Swap fresh carrots or celery with frozen veggies if needed.
• Add Leftovers: Toss in leftover chicken, sausage, or veggies for added flavor.

Internal Links to Check Out

• The $50 Grocery Challenge: Can You Eat for a Week on This Budget?
• Meal Prep 101: How to Save Time and Money on Family Dinners
• 10 Must-Have Tools to Simplify Your Financial Life

External Links for Further Reading

• Why Lentils Are a Budget-Friendly Protein
• How to Cook Lentils Perfectly Every Time

Final Thoughts

Lentil soup is proof that delicious food doesn’t have to be expensive. This recipe is cozy, filling, and versatile—perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.

Want more budget-friendly recipes? Check out KateFi.com for tons of frugal meal ideas that are big on flavor and low on cost.