Rainy Day Collards and Lentil Soup

Cozy up on gray, drizzly days with this hearty and nutritious Rainy Day Collards and Lentil Soup, a warming blend of simple pantry staples and fresh greens. Packed with protein-rich lentils, tender collard greens, and aromatic vegetables, this vegan soup is flavored with smoky paprika, earthy cumin, and a hint of thyme for a bold, comforting taste. Fire-roasted tomatoes and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice lend brightness to every spoonful, while crushed red pepper flakes add an optional touch of heat. Ready in just an hour, this satisfying one-pot recipe is perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. Pair it with crusty bread or enjoy it solo for a wholesome and filling meal that’s as nourishing as it is delicious.

Nutriscore Rating: 81/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 0.5 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 14.5-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, with juices
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 large bunch collard greens, stems removed and leaves chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice

Directions

Step 1

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 2

Stir in the minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.

Step 4

Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Step 5

Stir in the chopped collard greens, salt, and black pepper. Simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes until the collard greens are wilted and tender.

Step 6

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if needed. Stir in the lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.

Step 7

Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad, if desired. Enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(2808.3g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1374.5

Total Fat 44.6g	0%
Saturated Fat 7.6g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 7.0g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 6773.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 207.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 61.7g	0%
Total Sugars 52.8g
Protein 60.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1194.6mg	0%
Iron 20.5mg	0%
Potassium 5750.7mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 27.2%

Protein: 16.5%

Carbs: 56.3%