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Leafy Lentil Minestrone

By NapTime Village Test Kitchen

A hearty, plant-forward minestrone loaded with lentils, kale, veggies, and olive oil for steady energy and gut-friendly fiber.

Bowl of vegetable lentil soup with kale and beans

Prep

15 mins

Cook

30 mins

Total

45 mins

Calories

388 kcal

Protein

21.1 g

Carbohydrates

54.4 g

Serves

4 bowls

Fat

11.7 g

Longevity

65/100

Leafy lentil minestrone is the kind of soup that makes a kitchen feel warm and steady. It layers vegetables, lentils, and herbs into one comforting pot. The lentils bring protein and fiber that help the soup feel truly satisfying. Kale and tomatoes add color, texture, and a bright finish. Olive oil and aromatics build depth without making the dish too heavy. This is a practical recipe for weeknights because most ingredients are pantry-friendly. It also works well for batch cooking and next-day lunches. The flavors deepen as it rests, so leftovers often taste even better. Serve it with bread or grains if you want a heartier meal. This is a country-pot supper that stays nourishing, affordable, and dependable.

Ingredients

Servings
UnitsStandard
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  • Proteins
  • Fiber / plants
  • Fats
  • Flavor / spices

Step-by-step

4 bowls
  1. 1

    Step 1

    Sauté the aromatics

    • Ingredients:
      • Olive oil
      • Onion
      • Carrots
      • Celery
      • Garlic
    • Action: Warm oil in a Dutch oven over medium. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery with a pinch of salt for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
  2. 2

    Step 2

    Simmer the lentils

    • Ingredients:
      • Lentils
      • Crushed tomatoes
      • Vegetable broth
      • Oregano
      • Basil
      • Salt and pepper
    • Action: Add lentils, tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce to a gentle simmer, and cook 18–20 minutes until lentils are tender.
  3. 3

    Step 3

    Finish with greens

    • Ingredients:
      • Kale
    • Action: Stir in kale and cook 2–3 minutes until wilted and vibrant. Adjust seasoning to taste and ladle into bowls.

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven

  • Wooden spoon

  • Ladle

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Leafy Lentil Minestrone | NapTime Village | NapTime Village