The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup

Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup is a wholesome and nourishing dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a chilly day or add some healthy options to your meal prep, this soup delivers. With a blend of lentils, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it is both satisfying and packed with nutrients. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare in a crockpot, making it a go-to recipe for busy individuals or families.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: Simply toss all the ingredients into the crockpot and let it do the work while you relax.
• Nutritious and Healthy: Packed with lentils, veggies, and healthy fats from olive oil, it’s a great way to fuel your body.
• Versatile Flavor: The combination of herbs de Provence and fresh greens creates a deliciously unique taste that everyone will enjoy.
• Great Meal Prep Option: With 8 servings per batch, this soup is perfect for meal prepping for the week ahead.
• Vegetarian and Vegan Friendly: This recipe is suitable for various diets, making it a crowd-pleaser at gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Preparing The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup is simple with the right tools. Gather these essentials before starting:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Crockpot
• Blender
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Crockpot: The heart of this recipe; it allows for low-and-slow cooking that enhances flavors.
• Blender: Perfect for creating a creamy texture by blending part of the soup without losing its chunky goodness.

Ingredients

Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup – a clean and simple soup made with onions, garlic, carrots, olive oil, squash, and LENTILS! Super healthy and easy to make.

Vegetables

• 2 cups butternut squash (peeled and cubed)
• 2 cups carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 2 cups potatoes (chopped)
• 2 cups celery (chopped)

Legumes

• 1 cup green lentils
• 3/4 cup yellow split peas (or just use more lentils)

Aromatics

• 1 onion (chopped)
• 5 cloves garlic (minced)

Liquids & Seasonings

• 8-10 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 teaspoons herbs de Provence
• 1 teaspoon salt (more to taste)

Greens & Oils

• 2-3 cups kale (stems removed, chopped)
• 1 cup parsley (chopped)
• 1/2 cup olive oil – rosemary olive oil or other herb infused oil is delicious

Acidity

• A swish of sherry, red wine vinegar, or lemon juice to add a nice tangy bite

How to Make The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients listed above. Chop the vegetables as needed so they are ready to go into the crockpot.

Step 2: Combine All Ingredients in Crockpot

Place all ingredients in the crockpot:
1. Add the butternut squash, carrots, potatoes, celery, green lentils, yellow split peas, onion, garlic, broth, herbs de Provence, salt, kale, parsley, and olive oil.
2. Mix everything gently to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

Cover the crockpot:
– Cook on high for 5-6 hours or low for 7-8 hours until all vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Blend for Creaminess

After cooking:
1. Remove about 4 cups of soup from the crockpot.
2. Place it in a blender with some olive oil. Pulse gently until you achieve a semi-smooth consistency.
3. Return the blended mixture back into the pot and stir to combine everything well.

Step 5: Final Touches Before Serving

Turn off the heat:
– Let everything rest for a bit before serving. This step allows flavors to meld beautifully.
– Season with sherry or vinegar for added tang if desired.

Serve your Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup warm alongside crusty wheat bread or sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for an extra touch! Enjoy your healthy meal with family or friends!

How to Serve The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup

Serving The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup is as important as making it. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make for a complete meal.

With Crusty Bread

• Enjoy the soup with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread for dipping. The bread absorbs the flavorful broth beautifully.

Topped with Cheese

• Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese on top before serving. The cheese adds a rich, savory touch that complements the soup’s freshness.

Fresh Herbs Garnish

• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor. These herbs brighten up the dish and add to its detox benefits.

With a Side Salad

• Pair your soup with a light mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. This adds a refreshing contrast to the warm and comforting soup.

Drizzled with Olive Oil

• A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving elevates the flavors. Consider using herb-infused oils for an extra kick.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Portion leftovers into containers for easy reheating during the week. It’s perfect for quick, healthy lunches or dinners.

How to Perfect The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup

To achieve the best flavor and texture in The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup, keep these tips in mind:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables yield better flavor and nutrients, enhancing your soup’s overall taste.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your soup before serving and adjust salt, herbs, or acidity as needed to balance flavors.
• Blend partially: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture while keeping some lentils whole for heartiness.
• Let it rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a bit after cooking lets flavors meld together, resulting in a richer taste.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add spices like cumin or smoked paprika for additional depth and warmth.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup

Complementing your Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup with delicious side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Bread – Toasted bread spread with garlic butter makes for a perfect crunchy side that pairs well with the soup.
2. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition; try carrots, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts.
3. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette provides protein and freshness alongside your hearty soup.
4. Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice or grains make a filling side that complements the flavors of lentils nicely.
5. Couscous Pilaf – Fluffy couscous tossed with herbs can serve as an excellent base under the soup or as a standalone side.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes add sweetness and fiber; they can be served whole or mashed alongside your soup.
7. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of the lentils.
8. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad provides a sweet contrast to the savory flavors of your meal, refreshing your palate between bites.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your soup. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using Old Lentils: Old lentils may not cook properly, leading to a gritty texture. Check the expiration date and use fresh lentils for the best results.
• Skipping the Blend Step: Blending part of the soup creates a creamy texture. If you skip this step, your soup may be too chunky.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Under-seasoning can make your soup bland. Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end for maximum flavor.
• Overcrowding Ingredients: Adding too many vegetables can overwhelm the broth. Stick to recommended amounts for balance.
• Ignoring Cook Time Variations: Different crockpots may cook at different speeds. Adjust cooking time based on your appliance for optimal results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover soup in airtight containers.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup healthy?

This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients like lentils, vegetables, and herbs, providing essential vitamins and minerals while being low in calories.

Can I customize The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add different vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. You can also substitute other legumes if you prefer.

How long does it take to cook The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup?

Cooking time varies by setting; typically, it takes about 5-6 hours on high or 7-8 hours on low.

Is The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup vegan?

Yes! This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians alike.

Final Thoughts

The Best Detox Crockpot Lentil Soup is not only delicious but also versatile and nourishing. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s perfect for any dinner table. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices; this soup is sure to become a family favorite!