Can I make this gluten-free or vegan?

Yes—this recipe is naturally vegan if you use vegetable broth and skip any meat additions. It’s also gluten-free as lentils, vegetables, and spices contain no gluten.

Can I adapt it for stovetop or Instant Pot?

Definitely. Follow the same sauté step on stovetop, then simmer with lentils and tomatoes for 35–45 minutes until lentils are tender. Alternatively, use an Instant Pot on high pressure for about 15 minutes, then allow 10-minute natural release.

How long will leftovers keep?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This soup freezes well too—thaw overnight and reheat gently on low, adding water or broth if needed to reach desired consistency.

Crockpot Mediterranean Lentil Soup

Name: Crockpot Mediterranean Lentil Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 10 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 cups dry green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 cups chopped carrots; 2 cups chopped celery; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 15 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes; 15 oz crushed tomatoes; 4–5 cups vegetable broth; 1½ tsp cumin; 1 tsp coriander; 1 tbsp red wine vinegar; 2 cups spinach or kale, optional; 1 tbsp lemon juice, optional; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

Crockpot Mediterranean Lentil Soup is a wholesome slow-cooker recipe filled with lentils, vegetables, tomatoes, and bold Mediterranean spices for cozy, easy dinners.

Ingredients

2 cups dry green or brown lentils, rinsed

2 tbsp olive oil

1 medium yellow onion, diced

2 cups chopped carrots

2 cups chopped celery

4 garlic cloves, minced

15 oz fire-roasted diced tomatoes

15 oz crushed tomatoes

4–5 cups vegetable broth

1½ tsp cumin

1 tsp coriander

1 tbsp red wine vinegar

2 cups spinach or kale, optional

1 tbsp lemon juice, optional

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a skillet, warm olive oil and sauté onion, carrot, and celery for 5–7 minutes.

2. Add garlic, cumin, and coriander; cook 1 more minute.

3. Transfer to crockpot with lentils, diced and crushed tomatoes, and broth.

4. Stir and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours until lentils are tender.

5. Stir in red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and optional greens.

6. Cook on high for another 20–30 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.

Notes

For thicker texture, blend part of the soup before serving.

This soup freezes well. Add fresh lemon juice before reheating for best flavor.

Optional: Serve with pita bread or rice for a full meal.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Category: Soup
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Mediterranean

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 290
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 530mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 13g
Protein: 14g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Crockpot Lentil Soup, Mediterranean Lentil Soup, Slow Cooker Vegetarian Soup, Healthy Dinner