Creamy Lemon Lentil Soup

Name: Creamy Lemon Lentil Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 1 stalk celery, diced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup coconut milk; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I love making Creamy Lemon Lentil Soup on a chilly day when I crave something warm and comforting. The combination of earthy lentils with a bright, zesty lemon flavor is simply irresistible. We use coconut milk to give the soup a rich creaminess that makes each spoonful feel indulgent. It’s hearty enough as a full meal but also light and refreshing. This soup is perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests at a dinner party.

Created by

Willow Harries

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:21:36.703Z

When I first decided to try my hand at lentil soup, I wanted something that provided comfort while being a bit different from the norm. After experimenting with various flavors, I discovered that fresh lemon juice perfectly elevated the dish, balancing the richness of lentils and coconut milk. The tartness of lemon makes every bite feel refreshing!

I recommend garnishing the soup with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch. Cooking the lentils until they are tender and mixing them well ensures a creamy texture that'll make you want seconds. Trust me, this soup is a game changer for your regular soup rotation!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bright citrus flavor that lifts your spirits
Hearty texture that keeps you full and satisfied
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of lentils can significantly affect the texture of your Creamy Lemon Lentil Soup. Green or brown lentils are ideal for this recipe as they hold their shape better during cooking compared to red lentils, which tend to become mushy. Rinsing the lentils not only removes any debris but also helps prevent them from clumping together. This simple step ensures that your soup maintains a pleasant texture throughout.

Coconut milk adds a luxurious creaminess that perfectly balances the acidity of the lemon juice. Opt for full-fat coconut milk for the richest flavor, but if you're looking for a lighter option, use lite coconut milk instead. Avoid the coconut cream that sits on top in a can, as it can make the soup too thick. The acidity from the lemon also brightens the earthy flavors of the lentils, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Techniques for a Perfectly Creamy Soup

Sautéing the aromatics is crucial for developing a deep flavor base. Make sure to cook the vegetables until they are softened and slightly translucent; this usually takes about 5 minutes. Don't rush this step! If the garlic starts to brown, it can impart a bitter flavor to the soup, so keep an eye on it and stir often.

For blending, using an immersion blender allows you to adjust the soup's creaminess directly in the pot. This is my preferred method because it saves on dishes. If you don’t have one, carefully transfer batches to a countertop blender, but be cautious with the hot liquid to avoid splattering. You can also reserve some cooked lentils and vegetables to stir back in for added texture before serving.

Ingredients

Gather the ingredients listed below for a delicious and hearty soup.

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 stalk celery, diced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 cup coconut milk
Juice and zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have everything ready, you can start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make the soup.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Add Lentils and Broth

Stir in the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the lentils are tender.

Blend and Finish

Once lentils are cooked, stir in coconut milk, lemon juice, and zest. For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy it warm!

Now, sit back and enjoy your delicious creamy lemon lentil soup!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Serve with crusty bread for dipping!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Creamy Lemon Lentil Soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days. Just allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. If you prefer to make it ahead of time, I suggest cooking the lentils separately and adding them to the soup just before serving. This keeps the lentils from becoming too soft during reheating. Heat gently on the stove over medium-low heat and add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it thickens too much.

Freezing is also an option if you want to enjoy this soup later. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving about an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion. This soup can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to eat it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. Just be sure to stir well and check the seasoning before serving, as flavors may mellow in the freezer.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance the fresh lemon flavor, consider garnishing your soup with a lemon wedge or an extra sprinkle of lemon zest just before serving. A dollop of thick Greek yogurt or a swirl of additional coconut milk can add an extra layer of creaminess, while also providing a nice contrast to the soup’s bright flavors. Additionally, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can introduce a pleasant warmth if you enjoy a bit of spice.

Pair this soup with crusty whole-grain bread or a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. It can also serve as a wonderful starter if you're entertaining. The vibrant color and inviting aroma will make it a highlight of your dinner table, sure to impress your guests with both its taste and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, this soup is already vegan due to the use of vegetable broth and coconut milk.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

→ Can I use dried lentils instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the type of dried lentils you use.

→ What can I substitute for coconut milk?

You can use any non-dairy milk, but the texture may vary; for richness, choose a cashew cream or full-fat coconut milk.