Cookwith

Name: Smoky Lentil & Spinach Power Soup
Prep time: 35 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp dried thyme; 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional); 1 bay leaf; 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, no salt added; 5 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 2 cups fresh baby spinach, packed; 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Smoky Lentil & Spinach Power Soup

miradugm

This Smoky Lentil & Spinach Power Soup is a high-fiber, high-protein vegetarian meal, perfect for anyone on a fitness journey! It’s loaded with lentils for plant-based protein and fiber, vibrant veggies for flavor and micronutrients, and a hint of smoked paprika for depth. Spinach adds a nutritional boost and a pop of color. A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens every spoonful. This soup is hearty enough for dinner, yet light on calories—ideal for fueling your workouts and supporting lean muscle. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for meal prep or cozy weeknights.

Ingredients

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook until softened and aromatic, about 5 minutes.
Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, and chili flakes (if using); cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, bay leaf, and a generous pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, until lentils are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
Remove and discard bay leaf. Stir in spinach and simmer just until wilted, 1-2 minutes.
Turn off heat. Stir in lemon juice and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and enjoy hot.