Easy Lentil Soup (to use up veggies)

Let’s be real—sometimes cooking feels like a chore. But this one-pot lentil soup is here to save the day (and your grocery budget). It’s packed with pantry staples, super filling, and way more exciting than sad canned soup. Plus, it's vegan, protein-packed, and perfect for meal prep.

Oh, and it also helps fight food waste because you can throw in whatever veggies you have lying around—aka, that sad celery and those frozen peas you keep forgetting about. This version also sneaks in some kale for extra nutrients, but if kale isn’t your thing, you can swap it for spinach or leave it out.

🥣 Amore Lentil & Kale Soup Recipe

Servings: 4-6 Time: 40 minutes

🛒 Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small yellow or white onion, diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 1 tbsp Amore Garlic Paste

• 2 tbsp Amore Tomato Paste

• 1 tsp Amore Basil Paste

• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (drained slightly if you prefer a thicker soup)

• 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown)

• 4 cups vegetable broth (or water + bouillon)

• 1 tsp cayenne (for a little heat)

• ½ tsp cumin

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp soy sauce or a splash of vinegar (for umami, optional)

• 1 cup frozen veggies (optional, for extra bulk)

• 2 cups chopped kale (or more if you love greens!)

• Fresh herbs or cheese for topping (if you have it)

🧑‍🍳 How to Make It

1️⃣ Sauté the Base

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

• Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.

2️⃣ Build the Flavor

• Stir in Amore Garlic Paste, Tomato Paste, and Basil Paste.

• Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant—aka, when your kitchen starts smelling amazing.

3️⃣ Simmer the Soup

• Add diced tomatoes, lentils, broth, cayenne, cumin, black pepper, and salt.

• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender.

4️⃣ Add the Kale & Final Touches

• Stir in soy sauce or vinegar for extra depth (trust me, it makes a difference).

• Add chopped kale and let it wilt for 5 minutes.

• If using, toss in frozen veggies and simmer for another 5 minutes.

• Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

5️⃣ Serve & Enjoy!

• Ladle into bowls and top with fresh herbs, cheese, or whatever you’re feeling.

• Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or over rice for a heartier meal.

💡 Ways to Make It Even Better

• 🥣 Want it Creamier? Blend part of the soup for a thicker texture.

• 🔥 Love Spice? Add more cayenne or toss in some red pepper flakes.

• 💪 Need More Protein? Stir in cooked beans, chickpeas, or tofu.

This soup is cheap, cozy, and perfect for meal prepping, so make a big batch and thank yourself later. If you try it, let me know how you tweak it! 💚