Description
Italian Lentil Soup (Zuppa di Lenticchie)
This hearty Italian Lentil Soup, also known as Zuppa di Lenticchie, is a traditional dish that’s both nutritious and comforting. Originating from the Italian countryside, it’s often enjoyed during the colder months and is even considered a symbol of prosperity when eaten on New Year’s Eve. Loaded with lentils, vegetables, and herbs, it’s an easy one-pot meal perfect for any day. Just add some crusty bread, and you have a cozy, budget-friendly meal to share with family and friends!
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 large carrot, diced
2 celery ribs, diced
3 garlic cloves, chopped
1 cup dried brown lentils
400g crushed tomatoes
5 ½ cups vegetable stock
Parmesan rind (optional)
¼ tsp red chili flakes
1 ½ tsp dried basil
1 ½ tsp dried oregano
1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
Salt & pepper to taste
To serve: chopped parsley, grated Parmesan, olive oil
Directions:
1. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery in olive oil for 5 mins.
2. Add garlic; sauté 1 min.
3. Add lentils, tomatoes, stock, herbs, and Parmesan rind.
4. Simmer for 30-40 mins.
5. Stir in parsley, serve with Parmesan and olive oil.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Kcal: 339
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Vegetables: Finely dice one medium onion, one large carrot, and two celery ribs. Chop three garlic cloves.
2. Sauté the Base: In a large pot, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until softened.
3. Add Aromatics: Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
4. Build the Soup: Add 1 cup of dried brown lentils (rinsed), one 400g can of crushed tomatoes, 5 ½ cups of vegetable stock, ¼ tsp red chili flakes, 1 ½ tsp each of dried basil and oregano, 1 tsp chopped fresh rosemary, and the optional Parmesan rind. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Final Touches: Remove the Parmesan rind. Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in chopped fresh parsley just before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is a complete meal in a bowl. For the ultimate experience, ladle it into deep bowls and drizzle with a final thread of extra virgin olive oil. Top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve alongside thick slices of crusty bread or a warm, rustic focaccia for dipping. A simple side salad of bitter greens like arugula with a lemon vinaigrette provides a perfect fresh contrast.
How-to Summary
In summary, create this soup by sautéing onion, carrot, and celery (the soffritto). Add garlic, then lentils, tomatoes, stock, and herbs. Simmer until lentils are tender. Finish with parsley and serve with Parmesan and olive oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of lentil? Brown or green lentils hold their shape best. Red lentils will break down completely, creating a thicker, creamier soup.
How can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours.
Is the Parmesan rind essential? No, but it adds a deep, savory umami flavor. Save rinds in your freezer for this purpose.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or stock if it has thickened.
Can I make this soup vegan? Absolutely. Omit the Parmesan rind and topping. Use a vegan Parmesan alternative or a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the lentils until they turn to mush; they should be tender but retain some texture. Do not skip sautéing the initial vegetables, as this builds the foundational flavor. Be cautious with salt if your vegetable stock is already salted—always taste before adding more at the end. Finally, don’t forget to rinse the dried lentils to remove any debris.
Conclusion
This Italian Lentil Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of comfort steeped in tradition. Simple, wholesome ingredients transform into a deeply flavorful and nourishing dish that is both economical and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re seeking a cozy weeknight dinner or a symbolic start to the new year, this Zuppa di Lenticchie is a timeless recipe that promises to warm you from the inside out. Buon appetito!