Warm Up This Winter with a Delish and Nutritious Greek Lentil Soup!
- Karitas Mitrogogos
- 9 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Over the past three weeks in Long Island, where I've been staying with friends, the weather has been extremely cold with freezing temperatures. The only thing I've been craving to eat is hot soup, as nothing beats a warm bowl to offer comfort and nourishment in such chilly weather.
A Greek lentil soup is one of my favorite winter soups, combining robust flavors with nutritious ingredients to brighten even the chilliest days. This traditional dish is both satisfying and rich in nutrients, making it a great choice for those looking to stay healthy while enjoying a tasty meal.
Why Choose Greek Lentil Soup for Winter?
Lentils have been a staple in Mediterranean diets for centuries, prized for their rich protein content and fiber. Greek lentil soup, often called Fakes, is a simple yet flavorful dish that uses basic ingredients like lentils, tomatoes, onions, garlic, celery, carrots and herbs. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and provides long-lasting energy, which is especially important during the winter months when the body needs more fuel to stay warm.
This soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences. The combination of lentils and vegetables creates a balanced meal that supports digestion, heart health, and immune function. Plus, the warmth of the soup helps sooth the body and mind, making it a go-to comfort food.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
Lentils: Rich in plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and folate. Lentils help maintain steady blood sugar levels and promote fullness.
Tomatoes: (optional) Provide antioxidants like lycopene, which support heart health and reduce inflammation.
Onions and Garlic: Known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
Olive Oil: Adds healthy fats that improve heart health and enhance the soup’s flavor.
Herbs (Celery leaves, Bay leaves, parsley): Offer antioxidants and add depth to the taste.
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients enhances the soup’s nutritional value and flavor. I also always add carrots or celery for extra vitamins and texture.
How to Make Greek Lentil Soup
Making this soup is straightforward and requires minimal cooking skills. Here’s a simple method to prepare a delicious pot of Greek lentil soup:
Rinse and sort lentils to remove any debris.
Sauté onions, garlic, carrot slices and celery slices in olive oil until soft and fragrant.
Add diced tomatoes (optional) and cook for a few minutes to release their juices.
Pour in lentils and vegetable broth, then add celery & bay leaves.
Simmer gently for about 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Finish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
This recipe yields a thick, comforting soup that pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad. In my family, as in many other Greek families, we like to serve this soup with a hard-boiled egg, and I also like to pair it with some spicy cheese - as seen in photo.
Tips!
Use brown or green lentils for a firmer texture; red lentils cook faster but tend to break down.
Add a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice at the end to brighten the flavors.
For a heartier meal, include diced potatoes or chopped spinach.
Prepare a large batch and freeze portions for quick meals during busy days.
Warm, filling, and packed with nutrients, Greek lentil soup is a winter meal that delivers both comfort and health benefits. It's simple ingredients and easy preparation make it accessible for cooks of all levels. Try this soup to add variety to your winter menu and enjoy a taste of Mediterranean tradition that nourishes your body and soul.
I sure hope you will try to make a hearty lentil soup, and I encourage you add your own touch to it by adding other veggies to it as well. Apart from this blog post with recipes, check out the links below for more healthy recipes with lentils!
Until soon Again!
Karitas