Authentic Italian Lentil Soup Recipe | Zuppa di Lenticchie by Emma Carter

If you’ve ever craved a bowl of warm, rustic comfort, Zuppa di Lenticchie—Italian Lentil Soup—is the answer. This nutrient-packed, hearty dish is a staple in Italian kitchens, loved for its simple ingredients and deep, satisfying flavor. The best part? It’s easy to make in just one pot and requires minimal effort!

Whether you need a quick, nourishing dinner or a cozy meal to enjoy on a chilly evening, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

What is Zuppa di Lenticchie?

In Italian, Zuppa di Lenticchie translates to lentil soup—a humble yet flavorful dish that has been a household favorite for generations. While variations exist depending on the region and family traditions, the foundation remains the same:

✔️ Lentils – The star of the show, offering plant-based protein and fiber.
✔️ Classic Italian aromatics – Onion, garlic, carrots, and celery create a fragrant base.
✔️ Seasonings – A touch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
✔️ Broth or water – For simmering the ingredients to perfection.

Our version is vegan, dairy-free, and tomato-free, making it light yet incredibly satisfying.

How to Make Italian Lentil Soup

Ingredients (Serves 4)

Base Ingredients:

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced (~1 ½ cups)
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced (~½ cup)
• 2 large celery stalks, finely diced (~½ cup) (or substitute with ¼ tsp fennel seeds for a unique twist)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½-¾ tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Lentils & Liquid:

• 1 cup dry lentils (green or brown, not red)
• 4-5 cups water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)

For Serving (Optional):

• Drizzle of olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Vegan parmesan cheese
• Crusty bread or garlic bread

Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-5 minutes until translucent. Stir in the carrots, celery, garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Continue cooking for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is soft and slightly caramelized.

2️⃣ Add the Lentils
Pour in the dry lentils and stir to coat them in the aromatic mixture. Let them toast slightly for 1-2 minutes to enhance their flavor.

3️⃣ Simmer to Perfection
Add 4 cups of water or broth, stir well, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and let it cook for 15-20 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more water if needed to maintain the desired brothiness.

4️⃣ Final Touches & Serving
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a generous helping of vegan parmesan cheese. Pair with crusty garlic bread or warm dinner rolls for the ultimate experience!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ One-pot simplicity – Easy cleanup and minimal effort.
✅ Packed with nutrients – High in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins.
✅ Customizable – Adjust the spices, herbs, or broth to suit your taste.
✅ Great for meal prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days and freezes well for up to a month.

This classic Italian lentil soup is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or whenever you need a bowl of wholesome comfort food. Enjoy!

Storage & Reheating Tips

 Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
 Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 1 month.
 Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed.

Instant Pot Option

Want to speed things up? Follow the same instructions but use an Instant Pot:

✔️ After sautéing the vegetables, add lentils and liquid.
✔️ Seal the lid and pressure cook on high for 5-6 minutes (brown lentils) or 7-8 minutes (green lentils).
✔️ Let the pressure release naturally for the best texture.

This Italian Lentil Soup (Zuppa di Lenticchie) is simple, nutritious, and deeply comforting—just as a classic Italian dish should be. Whether you serve it as a side or a main course, it’s bound to become a new favorite in your home.

Buon appetito! 🍲✨