For those chilly days when all you need is a warm, comforting meal but don’t feel like spending hours in the kitchen, this Slow Cooker Lentil Soup is the perfect solution. Packed with protein, fiber, and bursting with flavor, this lazy meal prep recipe practically cooks itself. Whether you’re busy or simply in the mood for something effortless, this soup is nutritious and comforting. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, it’s an ideal addition to your weekly slow cooker meal prep recipes.
Why Choose Lentil Soup for Lazy Meal Prep?
Lentil soup is the definition of a “set it and forget it” recipe. Lentils require no soaking, making them perfect for the lazy cook. They’re rich in protein, making this soup both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re prepping your meals for the week or need an easy dinner solution, this slow cooker lentil soup is your go-to for hearty comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
To make this slow cooker lentil soup, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lentils (green or brown)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or grated Parmesan
How to Make Slow Cooker Lentil Soup
This recipe is as easy as it gets. Simply toss all the ingredients into the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
1. Prep the Veggies
Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. These add a flavorful base to the soup while being rich in essential nutrients.
2. Combine Everything in the Slow Cooker
Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, and turmeric to the slow cooker, along with the prepped vegetables. Stir to combine everything.
3. Set It and Forget It
Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the soup cook for about 6-8 hours, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season and Serve
Once the soup is ready, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For an extra kick, you can add a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite garnish.
Lazy Meal Prep Tips
- Batch cooking: Make a large batch and portion it out for easy meals throughout the week. Lentil soup freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy it any time.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to switch up the flavors and nutrients.
- One-Pot Wonder: Save time and dishes by letting the slow cooker do all the work. No need to sauté or simmer—just throw it all in.
Health Benefits of Lentil Soup
Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrition. They are high in protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, which makes this soup both filling and incredibly healthy. This makes it an excellent option for meal preppers looking to stick to a healthy eating plan without much effort. Additionally, the turmeric in this recipe offers anti-inflammatory benefits, making this dish a nourishing choice.
Ready to enjoy the ultimate lazy meal prep recipe? Give this Slow Cooker Lentil Soup a try, and you’ll have a warm, healthy, and hearty meal with minimal effort. For more lazy meal prep ideas, don’t forget to grab my free Meal Prep Quick Start Guide and make meal planning easier than ever!
Slow Cooker Lentil Soup – The Easiest Comfort Food for Lazy Days
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils green or brown
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or grated Parmesan
Instructions
- Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. These add a flavorful base to the soup while being rich in essential nutrients.
- Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, and turmeric to the slow cooker, along with the prepped vegetables. Stir to combine everything.
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Let the soup cook for about 6-8 hours, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together. If you’re in a hurry, you can cook it on high for 3-4 hours.
- Once the soup is ready, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. For an extra kick, you can add a squeeze of lemon or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Ladle it into bowls and top with your favorite garnish.
