Last Updated on February 27, 2024 by Sabrina Currie
Lentil soup, with its earthy spice and complex flavor, is a tasty soup that's perfect any time of year. Looking for some side dishes? Here are the 50 best recipes and ideas to serve with lentil soup. From Middle Eastern flavored salads and rice to Indian naan bread or Southern cornbread and everything in between, there's a perfect side for every style of soup!
Whether you're making a humble lentil soup for the first time or whipping up your favorite lentil soup recipe, it's bound to be a crowd-pleaser that warms the soul. If you're wondering what to serve lentil soup to make it a complete and satisfying meal, I've got you covered. With a wide variety of tasty options, choose from flavors around the world to compliment whatever flavors make your unique soup recipe.
Lentil soup is a great source of protein and fiber. If you're looking for a good recipe, try my lentil, veggie and wild mushroom stew or this tasty lentil and greens soup.
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Bread + More
A bowl of lentil soup begs for a side of crusty bread to soak up every bit of savory broth. Whether it's garlic bread, homemade naan bread, or a simple slice of golden brown artisan loaf, the combination of warm soup and freshly baked bread is hard to beat.
If you've got the time, whip up a batch of homemade naan breads to serve alongside your lentil soup. Soft and pillowy, with a hint of nutty flavor from the turmeric powder, they're perfect for dipping and dunking into your bowl of soup. Bake them up and enjoy them plain or brush them with herb and garlic butter. Yum!
Crispy Dippers
Scoop soft lentils onto crostini or dip crispy toasts into your warm, creamy soup for a great side dish.
Salad
Balance out the heartiness of the soup with a light and refreshing simple green salad or something more complex. Tossed with fresh veggies, lemon slices, or a drizzle of olive oil, salad is the perfect palate cleanser that adds a burst of color and nutrients to your meal.
Sandwiches
For the ultimate comfort food experience, pair your lentil soup with a gooey grilled cheese sandwich. Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, it's a match made in culinary heaven. Or go big and hearty with a Southern muffuletta sandwich.
Dips + Condiments
Add a creamy finish to your lentil soup by topping it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream. Not only does it impart a rich and tangy flavor, but it also adds a luxurious texture that takes your soup to the next level. Or brighten up your lentil soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as fresh parsley or cilantro, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The vibrant flavors add a burst of freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the soup.
If you don't want a condiment in your soup, serve up one of these bold dips on the side with pita chips or bread to dip in both the soup and the spread.
Savory Side Dishes
Round out your meal with savory side dishes like roasted sweet potatoes, sautéed green beans, or tostones. These hearty vegetables complement the flavors of the soup while adding extra nutrition and texture to the plate. Crescent roll samosas, onion fritters and the garlic rice are a great choice for Indian flavored lentil soups.
Drinks
For Mediterranean or American style lentil soups, serve your lentil soup with a glass of crisp white wine or sparkling juice. For curried or Indian flavored lentil soups, try a creamy coconut milk fruit lassi. Alternatively, fruit juices on their own or mixed with sparkling water make great, festive and colorful drinks to serve with your soup.
Storing Leftover Lentil Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is always a good thing when it comes to lentil soup!), store them in an airtight container for later enjoyment. Lentil soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
Whether you're making lentil soup in a Dutch oven, slow cooker, Instant Pot, or on the stovetop, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. Use pantry staples like vegetable broth, chicken broth, olive oil, or tomato paste to add depth of flavor. Experiment with different types of lentils, such as red, brown, or Puy lentils, to find your favorite combination. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and your favorite herbs and spices to taste.
Pin It For Next Time
Save the 50 best recipes and ideas to serve with lentil soup to Pinterest or Facebook for next time!
Lentil soup is not only a delicious and nutritious main course, but it's also incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing it with side dishes and accompaniments. Grab a bowl of your favorite lentil soup recipe, gather your loved ones around the table, and dig in!
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If you have any questions or comments, you can find me on Instagram, Pinterest and Facebook. I try to answer any recipe related questions quickly as I know you might be in the middle of making it.
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Cheers and happy cooking, Friends! Sabrina
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