Lentil soup is a classic dish that’s enjoyed around the world. Lentil soup is a simple and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed all year round.
It’s delicious and comforting and can easily be wrapped up or down depending on what you serve with it. But what to serve with lentil soup? Thankfully, there are lots of delicious options to choose from!
In this blog post, we’ll explore some creative side dishes that pair perfectly with lentil soup.
Try any of them or all along with lentil soup to make your meal perfect. I have enjoyed these sides along with lentil soup, and I am sure you will also enjoy it. So, Let’s explore!
What is lentil soup? What does lentil soup taste like?
Lentil soup is a thick, hearty soup made with cooked lentils as the main ingredient. It often contains vegetables such as onions, celery and carrots for added flavor and texture.
Lentils are legumes that have a mild nutty flavor with sweet notes of earthiness. When cooked into a soup, they create an incredibly creamy texture without adding any cream or milk.
The taste of the soup can vary depending on what side ingredients are included in the recipe.
Generally speaking, lentil soup has a savory and slightly sweet taste to it that pairs well with warm bread or crackers.
Some recipes may call for additional seasonings such as cumin, curry powder or bay leaf to give the dish even more depth of taste.
Regardless of the recipe, lentil soup is a delicious and nutritious item that will keep you full and satisfied. Enjoy!
20+ Perfect sides to serve with Lentil Soup
1. Roasted Vegetables
Roasted vegetables are a great way to add some extra flavor and texture to your lentil soup.
You can roast any vegetable you like, but if you’re looking for something hearty and savory, try roasting root vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, and sweet potatoes.
Simply chop them into cubes or slices, toss them in olive oil and season them of your choice (salt, pepper, garlic powder, etc.), spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 350°F until they’re golden brown and crisp.
2. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Grilled cheese sandwiches are always a crowd-pleaser! To make them even tastier, try adding some diced onion or roasted red peppers to the mix before grilling up each sandwich.
Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, use different types of cheese and herbs to create unique flavor combinations—the possibilities are endless!
Find Out: Delicious Side Dishes That Go Perfectly with Pastrami Sandwiches
3. Salad
A simple salad is the perfect accompaniment to any bowl of soup.
For a light yet filling salad that pairs well with lentil soup, try combining leafy greens (such as spinach or kale), diced cucumber and tomato slices topped with a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
You can also add in some nuts or seeds for extra crunch and protein.
4. Garlic Bread
Garlic bread is a classic side dish that goes perfectly with lentil soup. If you want to keep things simple, just slice a baguette into thin slices, spread butter over them, and sprinkle garlic powder on top before baking until golden brown.
But if you really want to go all-out, try this recipe: mix together 4 tablespoons of softened butter, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of dried herbs like oregano or basil, and salt and pepper to taste.
Spread the mixture over the sliced baguette and bake until golden brown and crispy. Delicious!
5. Cheese Toasties
These cheesy toasties are an excellent accompaniment to any bowl of lentil soup! Preheat the oven to 400F (204C).
Cut 8 slices of bread into small cubes, then mix together 4 tablespoons of melted butter with 1 clove of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning in a separate bowl.
Place the cubed bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pour the butter mixture over top.
Sprinkle mozzarella cheese generously over the top before baking in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown and crispy. Yum!
6. Crispy Kale Chips
If you want something light but still packed with flavor alongside your lentil soup, these kale chips are just what you need!
Preheat the oven to 350F (177C). Wash one bunch of curly kale leaves thoroughly before cutting away their stems.
Toss them in a bowl with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper before spreading them out onto two baking sheets lined with parchment paper.
Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes until they’re dry and crispy but not burned. Enjoy!
7. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Nothing adds more flavor to lentil soup than a side of grilled vegetable skewers. The smoky, charred flavor of grilled vegetables pairs perfectly with the hearty, savory taste of lentil soup.
8. Naan Bread
This popular Indian flatbread is made from wheat flour and baked in a tandoor oven to give it a unique, smoky flavor. It’s an excellent accompaniment to any type of lentil soup as it helps to soak up all the delicious flavors.
9. Rice Pilaf
Fragrant rice pilaf is another great accompaniment to lentil soups and stews. You can easily make your own by cooking long-grain basmati rice with seasonings such as garlic, cumin, and cinnamon.
10. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also easy to prepare! Just toss sweet potato wedges or cubes with olive oil and your favorite seasonings before baking them in the oven until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside.
11. Spiced Applesauce
Nothing beats homemade applesauce for a sweet addition to your lentil soup meal! With just a few simple ingredients like apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom, you can whip up this flavorful side dish in no time at all!
12. Greek Salad
The bright combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, onions, feta cheese and oregano creates a fresh contrast when served alongside hearty lentils soups or stews for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
13. Green Bean Salad
Green beans are always an excellent addition to any meal – especially when prepared in a salad form!
Try the green bean salad version, which combines blanched green beans with cherry tomatoes, fresh parsley leaves and feta cheese for added flavor complexity that pairs well with any type of lentil soup dish!
14. Potato Pancakes
Potato pancakes (also known as latkes) are another great way to enjoy complimentary flavors alongside your bowl of lentil soup!
These fried pancakes made from grated potatoes have been beloved since a long time ago thanks to their crispiness outside yet tenderness inside!
Explore More: Delicious Sides for Potato Pancakes
15. Fresh Herbs & Cheese Platter
Add some extra zest by serving your guests a platter filled with fresh herbs such as rosemary and thyme along with various types of cheeses such as Boursin cheese spread or goat cheese crumbles – perfect for adding an extra layer of flavor complexity to your Lentil Soup feast!
16. Carrot & Parsnip Mash
For an earthy side that packs quite the nutritious punch, try making this carrot & parsnip mash; simply boil carrots & parsnips together until tender before mashing them into creamy perfection along with butter & milk for added richness – it’s sure to be enjoyed by all who partake in your Lentil Soup feast! (recipe)
17. Fried Onion Rings
Serve these crunchy onion rings alongside your Lentil Soup for an indulgent snack that will tantalize everyone’s taste buds.
Simply slice onions into thick rings before coating them lightly in seasoned flour & deep frying them until they reach golden-brown perfection – yum!!
18. Sautéed Mushrooms & Shallots
If you are looking for something lighter, add this sautéed mushroom & shallot mix.
Fry mushrooms & shallots together in butter until they’ve softened, then throw in some garlic cloves near the end for even more flavor complexity – perfect for pairing alongside Lentil Soup dishes or other warm winter meals alike!
19. Chickpea Fritters
For an unexpected twist, try making chickpea fritters; combine cooked chickpeas with spices like turmeric or cumin plus freshly chopped vegetables, then fry everything together in hot oil until ready; serve these fritters hot alongside some yogurt sauce or chutney – guaranteed crowd pleaser!!
20. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Last but not least, try roasting Brussels sprouts for a healthier take on traditional fries.
Preheat oven before tossing halved Brussels sprouts together with oil (or melted butter) plus salt/pepper, then bake everything till golden brown; serve these crunchy little bites as snacks/side dishes alongside warm bowls of Lentil Soup – pure comfort food magic!
What are the best flavors to go with lentil soup?
One of the best flavors to pair with lentil soup is cumin. Cumin adds earthy, nutty notes to any dish, and it complements the flavor of lentils perfectly.
Other spices that work well in lentil soup include coriander, ginger, garlic, turmeric, paprika, and curry powder.
You can also add a variety of vegetables to your soup, like carrots, celery, onion, bell pepper or potatoes for added flavor and nutrition.
For an even heartier meal, you can add some cooked chicken or sausage. Finish off your delicious soup by adding a dollop of plain yogurt or croutons for extra texture. Enjoy!
Discover More: Perfect Sides to Serve with Split Pea Soup
How do you jazz up lentil soup?
To jazz up lentil soup, you can add a variety of flavorful ingredients such as diced tomatoes, fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, sliced mushrooms, roasted garlic cloves, sautéed onions, and cubed potatoes.
You could also try adding some colorful vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Additionally, spice it up with curry powder or chili flakes to give it an extra kick!
Finally, garnish the soup with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sprinkle some crumbled feta cheese before serving.
How do you display lentil soup on a platter?
To display lentil soup on a platter, start by arranging one or two pieces of crusty bread in the center of the platter.
Then place an equal portion of soup into individual bowls and arrange them around the bread.
Finally, garnish each bowl with herbs or other toppings such as croutons, bacon bits, roasted nuts, grated cheese, or yogurt. This will add flavor and texture to your presentation while enhancing its visual appeal. Enjoy!
Wrap up On What to Serve with Lentil Soup
Lentil soup is such a satisfying dish, but it can also be quite bland when served alone – which is why finding creative sides to serve alongside it is so important!
From garlic bread to cheese toasties to crunchy kale chips, there are plenty of delicious options out there that can help take your meal from good to great!
So go ahead—experiment with different flavors and ingredients until you find the perfect combination for your next dinner party!
FAQs
How much lentil soup per person?
The amount of lentil soup per person will depend on the appetite of those eating it. Generally, 1/2 to 3/4 cups of cooked lentils is enough for one serving.
If you are making an extensive batch and plan to feed a group, consider 1-2 cups of cooked lentils per person.
You can adjust the number of servings depending on how thick or thin you desire your soup to be.
Adding more vegetables or broth will also increase the number of servings for a given batch. Enjoy!
What meat goes with lentils?
Many cultures feature lentils as a main ingredient in traditional dishes. Meat is often used to complement the flavor of lentils and enhance the meal.
Popular meats that pair well with lentils include chorizo, bacon, beef, lamb, sausage, pork, chicken or turkey.
These can be added to cooked lentils for a heartier meal or served as an accompaniment on the side.
Adding herbs or spices such as cumin, coriander and oregano can deepen the flavors further and create unique flavor combinations.
For vegetarian and vegan options, vegetables such as mushrooms, peppers and onions are delicious additions to cooked lentils and add both texture and flavor.
Other suggestions for meaty accompaniments include fish fillets like salmon, trout or tuna.
Finally, adding crumbled feta cheese or hard-boiled eggs are delicious and nutritious additions to a lentil dish. With so many options available, creating flavorful dishes with lentils is easier than ever!
What to serve with Turkish lentil soup?
This hearty and satisfying soup pairs well with a number of side dishes. A simple green salad or warm pita bread are both great accompaniments.
You could also serve it with a charred vegetable kebab or some roasted vegetables like eggplant or zucchini. For something more substantial, try serving the soup over a bed of bulgur wheat or quinoa for extra texture and flavor.
Serve it up with a dollop of Greek yogurt for an even creamier finish. Enjoy!
What sandwich goes with lentil soup?
1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich
A classic favorite, grilled cheese is the perfect complement to a bowl of lentil soup. The combination of melted cheese and crunchy bread pairs well with the savory flavor of lentil soup, creating a delicious meal.
Plus, grilled cheese sandwiches are quick and easy to make – making them great for busy days!
2. Turkey and Avocado Sandwich
This protein-packed sandwich pairs perfectly with lentil soup. The heartiness of turkey combined with creamy avocado makes for a flavorful sandwich that stands up well against the robust flavor of lentil soup. Plus, adding in some fresh veggies provides an extra crunchy texture to round out this meal.
3. Open-Faced Veggie Sandwich
Vegetarians can enjoy this light yet filling sandwich alongside their lentil soup.
Start by spreading hummus or smashed avocado on top of your favorite slice of bread, then layer on tomatoes, cucumbers, greens, sprouts, roasted red peppers or whatever your favorite veggies may be for a satisfying lunch or dinner option.
4. Tuna Salad Sandwich
For those looking for something more filling yet still healthy, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot when served alongside lentil soup.
Flake some canned tuna into a bowl and combine it with some chopped celery and onion, along with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, until it reaches desired consistency. Then add salt and pepper to taste before piling it onto wheat toast or your favorite bread variety.
5. Egg Salad Sandwich
This tasty sandwich has been around since ancient times and is still loved today as much as ever!
Whip up some egg salad by combining eggs (hard-boiled or scrambled), diced onions and celery, along with mayonnaise, until you have reached desired consistency.
Then spread it onto your favorite slice of bread and top off with lettuce for an added crunch that tastes great when paired with lentil soup!
What bread to serve with lentil soup?
1. Sourdough Bread
Sourdough is a timeless classic and pairs perfectly with lentil soup. Its chewy texture and slightly sour flavor help to bring out the savory characteristics of the soup.
Plus, its high fiber content makes it an ideal accompaniment to a healthy meal.
2. Rye Bread
Rye bread has an unmistakable, earthy flavor that goes well with the subtle flavors of lentil soup.
It is a good source of dietary fiber and contains minerals such as zinc, folate, magnesium, and selenium. Rye bread can also be used as a substitute for croutons in the soup if desired.
3. Focaccia Bread
Focaccia is a flat Italian bread that has been seasoned with herbs and spices before baking.
The light crunch of focaccia pairs nicely with the soft texture of lentil soup, while it’s olive oil-based flavor adds another layer of richness to the dish.
4. Pita Bread
Pita bread makes excellent dippers for lentil soup due to its hollow center and fluffy yet sturdy exterior, which make it easy to scoop up all that delicious broth or chunky contents within your bowl.
It is also packed with protein and fiber, which helps give you added energy throughout the day while making you feel fuller longer than most other types of bread.
5. Naan Bread
If you are looking for something more exotic than regular white or wheat bread, then naan fits the bill perfectly!
This Indian-style flatbread has a slight sweetness that offsets the savory notes in your lentil soup while adding texture and crunch at the same time.
The best part is that you don’t have to go out searching for naan as they are usually available at most supermarkets nowadays!
What kind of salad goes with lentil soup?
Salads can be a delicious and nutritious addition to any lentil soup. The following five salads are some of the best choices that go perfectly with this savory dish:
1. Classic Caesar Salad
This salad is a classic for a reason! Crisp romaine lettuce is topped with croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a creamy Caesar dressing for an irresistible combination of flavors.
2. Greek Salad
One of the most beloved salads, this dish features tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, pepperoncini peppers, and red onion, all tossed in a flavorful vinaigrette.
3. Chopped Salad
This hearty salad is made with fresh vegetables like romaine lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, celery, carrots and radishes, all diced into tiny pieces and tossed in your favorite dressing.
4. Spinach Salad
This leafy green salad skips the lettuce and instead focuses on tons of baby spinach leaves topped with bacon crumbles, hard-boiled eggs, mushrooms and onions for an impressive flavor profile.
5. Caprese Salad
A simple but delicious Italian salad composed of fresh mozzarella balls or slices combined with ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil leaves that’s dressed in olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
These five salads are sure to make your lentil soup complete by providing essential vitamins and minerals while adding bright colors to the meal!
What to serve with lentil soup for dinner?
Lentil soup is a hearty and delicious dish that pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Rice, quinoa, or couscous are all great options to serve alongside lentil soup.
For a complete dinner, roasted vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes are an easy way to add some crunchy texture and fresh flavors.
You can also serve greens such as a kale salad or sautéed spinach and garlic as a nutritious accompaniment.
For added protein, try serving hard-boiled eggs, steamed salmon, or grilled chicken with your lentil soup.
If you’re looking for something sweet to finish off the meal, slices of crusty bread topped with honey butter or baked apples with cinnamon and walnuts make the perfect finale!
What kind of wine to serve with lentil soup?
The best type of wine to serve with lentil soup is a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir, Beaujolais, or Grenache.
These wines have a fruit-forward flavor profile that will complement the earthy flavors in the soup without overpowering them.
If you prefer white wines, try Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, or Chardonnay. Pairings should be based on what ingredients are used in your lentil soup recipe and how spicy it is.
For instance, if there’s a lot of garlic, ginger and chili pepper in the soup, then a fruity Zinfandel might be better than a subtler white like Chablis.
You can also experiment with lighter rosé wines for a slightly sweeter pairing.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what type of wine pairs best with your soup. If you’re ever unsure, consult an experienced sommelier or wine expert for advice.
