There’s something incredibly soothing about digging into a bowl of Italian Lentil Soup. It’s rustic, nourishing, and made with simple pantry staples that somehow come together in the most magical way. Whether you’re craving comfort food or need a nutritious meal with minimal effort, this soup has you covered. With lentils, vegetables, and aromatic herbs simmered into a rich broth, this Italian classic is tailor-made for beginners. You can whip it up in the Instant Pot or let it simmer low and slow in a Crock-Pot. Either way, it’s the kind of recipe that tastes like home.
Why You’ll Love This Italian Lentil Soup
Italian Lentil Soup is more than just a bowl of comfort—it’s a meal-prep dream with big flavor and big benefits.
Here’s why it deserves a spot on your table:
- One-Pot Wonder: Easy to make in an Instant Pot or Crock-Pot—no extra dishes!
- Packed with Goodness: Lentils, veggies, spinach, and beans deliver protein and fiber.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses everyday, affordable ingredients you probably have on hand.
- Customizable: Add sausage, make it vegan, or load it with greens—your bowl, your way.
The Story Behind Italian Lentil Soup
Here’s why this humble dish is beloved across generations:
- Rooted in Italian Tradition: A staple of “cucina povera” (peasant cooking), it’s all about turning simple ingredients into something heartwarming.
- A Lucky Start: Italians serve lentils on New Year’s Eve to symbolize prosperity.
- Regional Flair: Tuscany adds kale and potatoes, Sicily favors chili flakes and sausage.
- Naturally Nutritious: Lentils offer protein, iron, and fiber—no wonder it’s a classic.
Key Ingredients in Italian Lentil Soup
- Green or Brown Lentils – These hold their shape and soak up all the flavor.
- Carrots, Onion, and Celery – The classic trio for a savory, aromatic base.
- Garlic – Adds depth and warmth to the broth.
- Vegetable Broth – Infuses the soup with richness; opt for low-sodium for balance.
- Diced Tomatoes – Adds tang, color, and a hint of sweetness.
- Cannelini Beans – Creamy and filling, these white beans add extra protein.
- Fresh Spinach – Stirred in at the end for a pop of color and nutrients.
- Italian Herbs + Spices – Oregano, rosemary, thyme, paprika, and more bring it to life.
- Optional Toppings – Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan add a finishing touch.
How to Make Italian Lentil Soup (Instant Pot or Crock-Pot)
Instant Pot Italian Lentil Soup Instructions
- Prep Your Veggies
Dice the onion and carrots, finely chop the celery, and mince the garlic. A rough chop works—no need to be fancy. - Add Everything (Except Spinach & Beans)
Pour 6 cups of broth into your Instant Pot. Add all the chopped veggies, dry lentils, canned diced tomatoes (with juice), and your herbs and spices. - Set Your Instant Pot
Seal the lid and set it to MANUAL or PRESSURE COOK on HIGH for 15 minutes. It will take about 20–25 minutes to come to pressure. - Quick Release and Stir
When cooking is done, carefully quick release the pressure. Remove the lid, stir in the drained cannelini beans and chopped spinach. - Serve It Up
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy hot!
Crock-Pot Italian Lentil Soup Instructions
- Chop and Drop
Dice the onion, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic. Add everything (except spinach and toppings) to your slow cooker. - Let It Simmer
Cook on HIGH for 5–6 hours or LOW for 7–8 hours, until lentils are tender and veggies are soft. - Stir in the Final Touches
Mix in the spinach and let it wilt for a few minutes before serving. - Top and Enjoy
Garnish with Parmesan or fresh parsley if you like. Serve warm with crusty bread.
Italian Lentil Soup Tips and Twists
Master this recipe with these helpful ideas:
5 Tips for Success:
- Use green or brown lentils—they hold up best in long cooking.
- Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove any dust or debris.
- Don’t skip the smoked paprika—it gives a cozy, earthy note.
- Add spinach at the end to keep it vibrant and not overcooked.
- Let the soup rest a few minutes before serving for deeper flavor.
3 Tasty Variations:
- Sausage Upgrade: Brown some Italian sausage and stir it in for a meaty version.
- Vegan Version: Skip Parmesan and use vegan broth—still incredibly flavorful.
- Chunky Veggie Boost: Add zucchini, sweet potato, or chopped kale for a heartier bowl.
Storage, Reheating, and Make-Ahead Tips
- Storage: Cool soup fully before storing in the fridge in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 60-second intervals, stirring between.
- Make-Ahead: Great for batch cooking—store portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What to Serve with Italian Lentil Soup
Complement your bowl of Italian Lentil Soup with these easy pairing ideas:
- Focaccia Bread – Perfect for dipping and soaking up the broth.
- Grilled Vegetables – A colorful and nutritious side dish.
- Simple Avocado Toast with Egg – A creamy contrast to the savory soup.
- Pimento Cheese – Spread on toast or crackers for a comforting Southern-style snack.
- Crispy chickpeas or garlic croutons – Add crunch and flavor right on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use red lentils instead?
Red lentils cook quickly and tend to get mushy. Green or brown are better for this recipe’s texture.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes! Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño for heat.
Is this soup gluten-free?
It is naturally gluten-free—just double-check your broth brand.
What can I use instead of cannelini beans?
Great Northern or navy beans work well as substitutes.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely—just make sure your pot (or Instant Pot) has the capacity to hold it all.
Enjoy Your Italian Lentil Soup
Italian Lentil Soup is the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again—especially when you need something hearty, healthy, and easy. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot to get dinner on the table fast, or letting it simmer all day in your slow cooker, this soup delivers on comfort and flavor. Don’t forget to top it with Parmesan, pair it with your favorite bread, and enjoy every cozy spoonful.
Explore More Recipes to Try Next
Love this bowl of comfort? Try these next from Abby’s Recipes:
- Grilled Chicken Wraps – Great for a hearty lunch alongside soup.
- Focaccia Bread – Bake this for a chewy, golden crust that’s perfect for dipping.
- Best Carrot Cake Cookies – Sweet and spiced for the perfect dessert pairing.
- Blueberry Bread Pudding – A warm and fruity ending to a cozy dinner.
- Simple Avocado Toast with Egg – Perfect for a balanced, nourishing meal.
Easy Italian Lentil Soup (Instant Pot or Crock-Pot)
Ingredients
Produce
- 1 medium onion diced
- 3 carrots peeled and diced
- 1 –2 celery ribs finely chopped
- 3 –4 garlic cloves minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
- Optional: fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for topping
Canned & Dry Goods
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1.5 cups dry green or brown lentils rinsed
- 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes with liquid
- 15 oz canned cannelini beans drained and rinsed
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- ⅛ tsp dried or fresh rosemary
Instructions
- Dice onion, carrots, and celery. Mince garlic.
- Add all ingredients except spinach and beans to Instant Pot or Crock-Pot.
- **Instant Pot**: Set to Manual, HIGH pressure for 15 minutes. Natural release 5 mins, then quick release.
- **Crock-Pot**: Cook on HIGH 5–6 hrs or LOW 7–8 hrs.
- Stir in spinach and cannelini beans after cooking. Let spinach wilt.
- Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve hot, topped with parsley and Parmesan if desired.
- Enjoy your warm, flavorful bowl of Italian Lentil Soup!
Notes
Calories: 280 | Protein: 15g | Carbs: 40g | Fat: 6g | Fiber: 13g (estimates per serving)