12 Delicious French Lentil Soup Recipes for Cozy Nights

Kick off your cozy evenings with a bowl of warmth and flavor! Our roundup of 12 Delicious French Lentil Soup Recipes is your ticket to comfort food heaven. Perfect for those chilly nights, these soups blend rustic charm with nourishing goodness. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, there’s a recipe here to make your heart (and stomach) happy. Let’s dive in!

Classic French Lentil Soup with Garlic and Herbs

Great news for soup lovers! You’re about to dive into a bowl of comfort with this Classic French Lentil Soup, packed with garlic and herbs. It’s hearty, flavorful, and just what you need to warm up.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups vegetable stock
• 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
• Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the red wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. For a smoother texture, blend half of the soup and return it to the pot.

Zesty and comforting, this soup boasts a velvety texture with a hint of tang from the vinegar. Serve it with a crusty baguette for dipping, or top with a dollop of crème fraîche for extra richness.

Spicy French Lentil Soup with Chorizo

Now, imagine coming home to a bowl of something hearty, spicy, and utterly comforting. This Spicy French Lentil Soup with Chorizo is your answer to those chilly evenings when you crave warmth with a kick.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed
• 4 oz Spanish chorizo, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
• 4 cups chicken stock, low-sodium
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt, to season
• Freshly ground black pepper, to season
• 1 tbsp sherry vinegar
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add diced chorizo and cook until lightly browned, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes. Tip: The chorizo will release its own oils, enhancing the soup’s flavor.
3. Stir in the onion and garlic, cooking until translucent, about 5 minutes. Tip: Keep the heat medium to avoid burning the garlic.
4. Add smoked paprika and red pepper flakes, stirring for 30 seconds to toast the spices.
5. Pour in the lentils, chicken stock, and add the bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
6. Cover and cook until lentils are tender, about 25 minutes. Tip: Check at 20 minutes to prevent overcooking.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in sherry vinegar for brightness.
8. Discard the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Perfectly balanced, this soup boasts a smoky depth from the chorizo, a gentle heat, and the lentils’ earthy texture. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping, or top with a dollop of crème fraîche to mellow the spice.

Creamy French Lentil Soup with Coconut Milk

Just imagine coming home to a bowl of creamy, dreamy French lentil soup that’s both comforting and a tad exotic, thanks to the coconut milk. You’re in for a treat that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 (13.5-ounce) can full-fat coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and turmeric, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 25 minutes.
6. Pour in the coconut milk, stirring to combine, and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Every spoonful of this soup offers a velvety texture with a hint of earthiness from the lentils, balanced by the creamy coconut milk. Try serving it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, or top with a sprinkle of chili flakes for a spicy kick.

French Lentil Soup with Smoked Bacon and Thyme

Warm up your kitchen with this hearty French Lentil Soup with Smoked Bacon and Thyme. It’s the perfect blend of smoky, savory, and herbaceous flavors that’ll make any dinner feel special.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 4 oz smoked bacon, diced
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves
• 6 cups chicken stock, low-sodium
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and cook until crispy, about 5 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the minced garlic and thyme leaves, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the lentils, chicken stock, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Garnish with the reserved crispy bacon and additional fresh thyme leaves if desired.

Perfect for a cozy night in, this soup boasts a velvety texture with a smoky depth from the bacon. Serve it with a crusty baguette for dipping, or top with a dollop of crème fraîche for an extra touch of luxury.

Vegetarian French Lentil Soup with Root Vegetables

Craving something hearty yet healthy? This vegetarian French lentil soup with root vegetables is your go-to. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any season.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 medium parsnips, peeled and diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups vegetable stock
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and parsnips. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils and vegetable stock. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Rich in texture and bursting with earthy flavors, this soup is a comforting bowl of goodness. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

French Lentil Soup with Lemon and Dill

This French Lentil Soup with Lemon and Dill is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. You’ll love how the bright flavors of lemon and dill play off the earthy lentils, creating a soup that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, for 25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the dill and lemon juice. Season with salt to taste.
6. Let the soup sit for 5 minutes off the heat to allow the flavors to meld.

The soup should have a velvety texture with a slight bite from the lentils. The lemon and dill add a fresh, zesty note that makes this dish stand out. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Hearty French Lentil Soup with Sausage and Kale

You know those days when you crave something comforting yet nutritious? This hearty French lentil soup with sausage and kale is your answer, packed with flavors that hug you from the inside.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 cup diced carrot
• 1/2 cup diced celery
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1/2 lb smoked sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups chicken stock, homemade preferred
• 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
• 1 tsp red wine vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to season

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and thyme, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add the sausage slices, browning them slightly on both sides, about 3 minutes total.
5. Pour in the lentils and chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until the lentils are tender, about 25 minutes.
7. Fold in the kale and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
8. Finish with red wine vinegar, then season with salt and pepper to taste.

Just imagine the creamy lentils, smoky sausage, and vibrant kale coming together in every spoonful. Serve it with a crusty baguette for dipping, and you’ve got a meal that’s both rustic and refined.

French Lentil Soup with Rosemary and Parmesan

Great news for soup lovers! You’re about to dive into a bowl of comfort that’s both nutritious and bursting with flavor. This recipe is perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet simple to make.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and finely diced
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• 6 cups vegetable stock
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and rosemary, cooking until fragrant, about 1 minute. Tip: To prevent burning, keep the heat at medium and stir constantly.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable stock, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Tip: Skim off any foam that rises to the surface for a clearer soup.
5. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Tip: For a smoother texture, blend half the soup before adding the Parmesan.

Mmm, the soup is rich, with a velvety texture from the lentils and a deep, savory flavor enhanced by the rosemary and Parmesan. Serve it with a crusty baguette for dipping, or top with a drizzle of olive oil and extra Parmesan for an extra touch of luxury.

Quick French Lentil Soup with Spinach and Feta

Vegan or not, you’ll love how this soup brings a cozy, hearty vibe to your table with minimal fuss. It’s packed with protein and greens, making it a win for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Remove the bay leaf and stir in the spinach, cooking just until wilted, about 2 minutes.
6. Off the heat, stir in the crumbled feta, lemon juice, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional feta and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Every spoonful of this soup offers a delightful contrast between the creamy feta and the earthy lentils. Try serving it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, or top with a poached egg for an extra protein boost.

French Lentil Soup with Caramelized Onions

Believe it or not, this French Lentil Soup with Caramelized Onions is the cozy, flavorful dish you’ve been craving. It’s hearty, packed with nutrients, and the caramelized onions add a sweet depth that’ll have you coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 2 large yellow onions, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp granulated sugar
• 4 cups vegetable stock, low-sodium
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sugar, stirring to coat. Cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until deeply caramelized.
2. Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Stir in the lentils, vegetable stock, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
4. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the apple cider vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. For a smoother texture, blend half of the soup and return it to the pot. This step is optional but adds a lovely creaminess.

Comforting and rich, this soup boasts a velvety texture with bursts of earthy lentils and sweet onions. Serve it with a crusty baguette for dipping, or top with a dollop of crème fraîche for an extra touch of luxury.

French Lentil Soup with Turmeric and Ginger

After a long day, there’s nothing like a bowl of hearty French lentil soup to warm you up. This version, spiced with turmeric and ginger, is both comforting and invigorating.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tbsp clarified butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 4 cups vegetable stock
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat the clarified butter in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2. Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and grated ginger, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the ground turmeric over the onion mixture, stirring well to coat.
5. Add the rinsed French green lentils to the pot, stirring to combine with the aromatics.
6. Pour in the vegetable stock and add the bay leaf, bringing the mixture to a boil.
7. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
8. Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, then stir in the lemon juice.
9. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
10. Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped cilantro.

Zesty and vibrant, this soup boasts a velvety texture with a hint of spice from the ginger. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

French Lentil Soup with Roasted Tomatoes and Basil

Nothing warms you up quite like a hearty bowl of French lentil soup, especially when it’s packed with the rich flavors of roasted tomatoes and fresh basil. It’s the kind of meal that feels both nourishing and indulgent, perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something comforting yet sophisticated.

Ingredients

• 1 cup French green lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Toss the cherry tomatoes with 1 tbsp of olive oil and spread them on a baking sheet. Roast for 20 minutes until they’re soft and slightly caramelized.
2. While the tomatoes roast, heat the remaining olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté for 5 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
5. Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the roasted tomatoes and half of the basil. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Serve the soup hot, garnished with the remaining basil. For an extra touch of richness, drizzle with a bit more olive oil before serving.

Velvety lentils and the sweet acidity of the tomatoes create a beautifully balanced soup, while the basil adds a fresh, aromatic finish. Try serving it with a slice of crusty bread for dipping, or top with a dollop of crème fraîche for a creamy contrast.

Conclusion

Whether you’re seeking comfort or a nutritious meal, these 12 French lentil soup recipes promise to warm your heart and home. Perfect for cozy nights, each dish offers a unique twist on this classic. We’d love to hear which recipe becomes your favorite—don’t forget to leave a comment and share this roundup on Pinterest for fellow soup lovers to enjoy!