Delicious Italian Lentil Soup with Pasta Hearty Comfort Meal

As the sun sets and the cool evening air begins to wrap around you, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of homemade Italian Lentil Soup with Pasta to warm your soul. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also wraps you in the comforting embrace of rich flavors and delightful aromas. Perfect for cozy evenings in or as a satisfying meal for gatherings, this soup is a nod to the traditional Italian culinary heritage.

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from family gatherings where hearty meals were the centerpiece of laughter and stories shared over the dinner table. Lentils have been a staple in Italian cuisine for centuries, symbolizing good fortune and prosperity. This soup is special because it brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s packed with nutrients and bursting with flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it an accessible choice for any home cook!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Italian Lentil Soup with Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience that embodies warmth, comfort, and rich cultural history. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

• Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with lentils, vegetables, and whole grain pasta, it’s a nutrient-dense meal that’s both filling and healthy.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the recipe to cater to various dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
• Simple Ingredients: All the ingredients are common pantry staples, making it an easy dish to whip up whenever you crave a cozy meal.
• Family-Friendly: This soup is beloved by both kids and adults, making it perfect for family dinners.

What Does The Recipe Taste Like

This Italian Lentil Soup is a delightful medley of flavors. The earthy taste of lentils combines beautifully with aromatic herbs, fresh vegetables, and savory broth, creating a comfort dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. The addition of pasta adds a hearty, chewy texture, while spices like garlic and bay leaves provide depth and warmth. The result is a balanced flavor profile that’s both satisfying and refreshing, whether enjoyed hot on a chilly evening or as a light meal on a warm day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delicious Italian Lentil Soup with Pasta, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Main Ingredients

• Green or Brown Lentils (1 cup): These lentils hold their shape well during cooking and provide a hearty base packed with protein and fiber.
• Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): A staple in Italian cooking, it adds richness and a fruity flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the soup.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth, forming the foundation of the savory flavor base.
• Carrots (2 medium, diced): These bring a touch of natural sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
• Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Offers a fresh, aromatic flavor that complements the rest of the vegetables.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the soup with a warm, fragrant aroma that’s quintessential in Italian cuisine.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth (6 cups): Provides a savory liquid base, enhancing the flavors with depth.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Contributes acidity and a rich tomato flavor that balances the heartiness of the lentils.
• Pasta (about 1 cup): Small pasta varieties like ditalini or orzo work best, adding substance and chewy texture.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Adds a robust herbal note characteristic of Italian dishes.
• Bay Leaf (1): Infuses the soup with a subtle aromatic flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning, bringing all the flavors together.

2. Optional Additions

Feel free to customize the soup to your taste with these optional additions:

• Red Pepper Flakes: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
• Spinach or Kale: Stir in some fresh greens during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutrient boost.
• Parmesan Cheese: Shavings or grated, it can be added on top before serving for a savory finish.

3. Special Garnishes

Elevate your soup further with these garnishing ideas:

• Fresh Basil Leaves: Top each bowl with fresh basil for a burst of color and a hint of aromatic freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the flavors and adds a delightful zing.
• Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of toasted or crusty bread for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your Italian Lentil Soup with Pasta:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add Lentils and Broth: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Add Pasta: Stir in the pasta and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. If the soup becomes too thick, feel free to add a bit more broth or water.
7. Final Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired.

Recipe Variations

This Italian Lentil Soup is versatile and can be easily modified to suit your preferences:

• Vegetarian/Vegan: This recipe is already vegetarian and can be made vegan by ensuring your broth is vegan-friendly.
• Protein Additions: Add cooked sausage or diced pancetta for extra protein and a meaty flavor.
• Different Lentils: You can experiment with red lentils for a creamier texture or black lentils for a firmer bite.

Serving and Storage Tips

This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to serve and store it:

• Serving: Enjoy the soup as a hearty main course or as a warm starter. Pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Helpful Tips

To ensure your Italian Lentil Soup with Pasta turns out perfectly:

• Rinse Lentils: Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any dust or debris.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings as necessary to fit your flavor preferences.
• Don’t Overcook Pasta: Since the pasta will continue to cook slightly in the residual heat, keep it al dente for the best texture.

Special Equipment

No specialized equipment is needed for this recipe, but having the following will make your cooking experience smoother:

• Large Pot: A sturdy pot is essential for making the soup. A Dutch oven works great for even heat distribution.
• Cutting Board and Knife: A good cutting board and sharp knife will help you chop your vegetables with ease.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are important for achieving the best flavors in your soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use lentils that are not pre-soaked?

Yes! One of the best parts about lentils is that they do not require soaking. Just rinse and cook them directly in your soup!

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup takes on even better flavors when made a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Is this soup gluten-free?

No, the traditional recipe includes pasta, which contains gluten. For a gluten-free version, simply omit the pasta or substitute it with gluten-free pasta.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for added flavor.

Conclusion

This Italian Lentil Soup with Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors, culture, and the joy of cooking at home. With its comforting warmth and vibrant ingredients, it’s perfect for cozy evenings with loved ones or casual gatherings. Don’t hesitate to try your hand at this recipe and make it your own—whether by adding your favorite herbs, changing up the pasta, or jazzing it up with unique garnishes. We’d love to hear about your experience, so feel free to share your thoughts and adaptations in the comments below! This dish promises to create memorable moments, proving that sometimes, the best experiences come from simply sharing a warm bowl of soup.

Delicious Italian Lentil Soup with Pasta Hearty Comfort Meal

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• Author: souzanfood
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Savor a delicious Italian lentil soup with pasta a hearty comfort meal thats perfect for cold days Quick nutritious and packed with flavor

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 cup Green or Brown Lentils

2 tablespoons Olive Oil

1 medium Onion, chopped

2 medium Carrots, diced

2 stalks Celery, chopped

3 cloves Garlic, minced

6 cups Vegetable or Chicken Broth

1 can (14.5 ounces) Diced Tomatoes

1 cup Pasta (small variety like ditalini or orzo)

1 teaspoon Dried Oregano

1 Bay Leaf

Salt and Pepper to taste

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Instructions

Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and mince the garlic.

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Stir in the pasta and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente. If the soup becomes too thick, feel free to add more broth or water.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh basil and a sprinkle of lemon zest, if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 280 calories
• Sugar: 5 grams
• Fat: 6 grams
• Carbohydrates: 45 grams
• Fiber: 12 grams
• Protein: 14 grams