When you’re craving something warm, comforting and satisfying, this butternut squash and red lentil soup is a wonderful recipe to have on hand. Made with sweet butternut squash, tender red lentils, carrots and warming spices, it’s a delicious homemade soup that’s naturally thick and creamy without needing butter or double cream.
The butternut squash adds a delicate sweetness, while the red lentils create a hearty, velvety texture and provide plant-based protein and fibre. A little fresh ginger, cumin and turmeric bring everything together, creating a beautifully golden soup that’s full of flavour.
Whether you’re preparing a simple family lunch, looking for an easy meat-free dinner or making a batch of soup for the week ahead, this recipe is practical, budget-friendly and wonderfully comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Butternut Squash and Red Lentil Soup
- Naturally creamy: The squash and lentils blend into a smooth soup without cream.
- Filling and nourishing: Red lentils provide protein and fibre.
- Easy one-pot recipe: Everything cooks together in a single saucepan.
- Budget-friendly: Made with affordable vegetables and dried lentils.
- Perfect for meal prep: Prepare several portions in advance.
- Freezer-friendly: Ideal for storing individual servings for busy days.
Recipe Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Preparation Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 45 minutes |
| Servings | 6 |
| Course | Lunch, Dinner, Soup |
| Cuisine | British-inspired |
| Difficulty | Easy |
Ingredients
For 6 servings:
- 700g butternut squash, peeled, deseeded and cubed
- 150g dried red split lentils
- 2 medium carrots (approximately 160g), peeled and chopped
- 1 medium onion (approximately 120g), finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 1 litre reduced-salt vegetable stock
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Low-calorie cooking spray, used according to the product instructions
- Salt, if needed
- Fresh coriander or parsley, for garnish
- A squeeze of fresh lemon juice, optional