Hey friend,
If today’s felt heavier than usual, or you’re just craving something cozy and healing, you’re in good company.
The day was long, your energy is low, and the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen or clean up a mess.
That was me the other night—until I made this soup. And let me tell you… this Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup is seriously out of this world.
It’s nourishing, flavorful, and so simple that I had dinner and dishes done before I even realized I was cooking.
If you’re looking for cozy fall soup recipes that warm your belly, calm your mood, and support your body—this one’s your new go-to.
As a certified health coach, I love sharing meals that not only taste good but do good for your body and mind.
This is the type of healthy soup recipe that comforts your nervous system, balances your hormones, and makes you feel held—like the food version of a soft blanket and your favorite playlist.
So whether you’re craving comfort, looking for an easy recipe for dinner, or just need a quick win midweek, I’ve got you.
This soup checks every box.
Why This Lentil Soup Works for Real Life
This isn’t one of those “three-hour simmer on a Sunday” soup recipes. Nope. It’s:
- Quick to prep (done in 30 minutes)
- Minimal cleanup (one pot = less stress)
- Packed with flavor and grounding spices
- Made with pantry staples
- Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free
- Ideal for plant-based or flexitarian eaters
Plus, it makes enough for leftovers.
I reheated a bowl the next day and it was even better. That’s the magic of lentils and spices—they get cozy together overnight.
Honestly, I didn’t even plan on photographing it until I tasted it and thought, “Yep, this one’s going on the blog.”
Healing Ingredients That Support Your Mood & Body
As a health coach, I’m all about using food as medicine.
This isn’t about perfection—it’s about giving your body what it needs to reset and feel good. And this soup delivers.
Key Benefits:
- Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory, supports hormone balance and reduces joint pain or bloating. It’s great for days you feel “puffy” or off.
- Ginger: A natural digestive aid that calms nausea, eases cramps, and supports your gut-brain connection.
- Red Lentils: High in plant protein and fiber = steady blood sugar and long-lasting energy (aka fewer mood swings).
- Coconut Milk: Adds healthy fats that support hormone production and help you feel satisfied.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens flavor + supports liver detox pathways.
This isn’t just a vegetarian lentil soup—it’s emotional wellness in a bowl.
🥣 Golden Turmeric Ginger Lentil Soup Recipe
PrintFall Soup Recipes: Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup for Cozy Nights
Golden Turmeric Lentil Soup
Cozy, nourishing, and full of flavor—this golden lentil soup is made with creamy red lentils, coconut milk, and a touch of turmeric for an anti-inflammatory boost. It’s the perfect weeknight comfort meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and naturally gluten-free.
- Prep Time: 10min
- Cook Time: 30min
- Total Time: 40min
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
ngredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil
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1 small onion, finely diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
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1 teaspoon ground turmeric
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1 teaspoon ground cumin
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½ teaspoon ground coriander (optional)
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1 cup red lentils, rinsed
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4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
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1 cup canned coconut milk (full-fat or light)
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1 medium carrot, chopped
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1 cup diced butternut squash (optional for extra creaminess)
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Juice of ½ lemon (to brighten the flavor)
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Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
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Fresh cilantro or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
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Sauté aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger and cook another 1–2 minutes until fragrant. -
Add spices:
Stir in turmeric, cumin, and coriander. Let the spices toast for 30 seconds to bring out their flavor. -
Add lentils and veggies:
Add red lentils, carrot, and butternut squash (if using). Stir well to coat everything in the spices. -
Simmer:
Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender. -
Add coconut milk:
Stir in coconut milk and let it warm through for another 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. -
Blend (optional):
For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some lentils and veggies for texture. -
Serve:
Ladle into bowls and top with fresh cilantro or parsley. Add an extra squeeze of lemon for brightness if desired.
Notes
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Storage: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
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Make it heartier: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra greens.
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Protein boost: Add shredded chicken or chickpeas if you’d like more protein.
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Texture tip: For a chunkier soup, skip blending and let the lentils break down naturally.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup red lentils, rinsed
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp coriander
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 1 small carrot, diced
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Chopped fresh cilantro or parsley (optional)
Directions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion until translucent.
- Add garlic and ginger; stir until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add turmeric, cumin, coriander; stir to coat.
- Pour in vegetable broth, then add lentils and diced carrot.
- Simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes until lentils are soft.
- Stir in coconut milk and simmer for 5 more minutes.
- Add lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust.
- Serve warm with fresh herbs.
Bonus: Quick Clean-Up
The best part was that I honestly was done with cleanup—like all of it—while the soup was simmering.
The cutting board, knife, and sauté pan were already washed and drying by the time dinner was ready.
This is why it’s one of my favorite easy recipes for dinner when life feels full.
If you’re a busy mom, juggling work, school pick-ups, or just too tired to think—this is your soup.
🥗 What to Serve It With
You don’t need much to make this a full meal, but if you want to round it out:
- A simple side salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a lemon-olive oil dressing works beautifully.
- A slice of sprouted grain toast or whole grain pita for dipping.
- Grilled or roasted tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein boost.
- Hard-boiled or jammy eggs on the side for extra satisfaction (if you’re not fully vegan).
I wouldn’t go the grilled cheese route this time—keep the spotlight on the soup’s grounding, nourishing vibe.
📦 Meal Prep Tips
This soup is perfect for batch cooking. I recommend:
- Doubling the recipe and freezing half in mason jars or Stasher bags.
- Making it on a Sunday and enjoying it for lunches all week.
- Packing it in a thermos for cozy workday nourishment.
It thickens as it sits, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
If You’re in a Cozy Fall Mood…
If you’re in a cozy fall mood, you’ll also love my Roasted Butternut Squash & Carrot Soup.
It’s warm, sweet, and just as nourishing, with roasted veggies and spices that support your immune system and mood.
Make both soups in the same week and freeze portions for a “future you” win!
From My Kitchen to Yours
If you’ve been looking for a go-to healthy soup recipe for those colder months, or just want something fast and nurturing after a busy day, this is the one.
I’m not exaggerating—it’s that good.
Let it warm you. Let it ground you. Let it remind you that simple things—like soup, quiet, and nourishment—can bring you back to yourself.
From my heart to your enjoy!
Monica
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