Calories in Lentil Soup: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Lentil soup is a hearty, nutrient-dense dish made primarily from lentils, vegetables, and broth, offering an excellent balance of protein and fiber. A typical cup of homemade lentil soup provides approximately 12 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber, along with meaningful amounts of iron, folate, and potassium. It is a staple comfort food across Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and South Asian cuisines.

Calories by serving size:

Lentil soup is one of the most nutrient-dense soups available, delivering a substantial amount of plant-based protein and fiber for relatively few calories. The addition of vegetables like carrots, onions, and tomatoes boosts the vitamin A and vitamin C content, while olive oil or other fats used in cooking improve the absorption of fat-soluble nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is lentil soup healthy?

Lentil soup is widely regarded as one of the healthiest soup options due to its high protein and fiber content combined with relatively low calories and fat. A single cup provides about 12 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber, which together promote satiety and support digestive health. It is also naturally rich in iron, folate, and potassium, making it a well-rounded meal choice.

How much protein is in a serving of lentil soup?

A standard one-cup serving of homemade lentil soup contains approximately 12 grams of protein, mostly from the lentils themselves. A larger bowl-sized serving of about 1.5 cups provides roughly 18 grams of protein, which is comparable to a serving of chicken breast in some preparations. Pairing lentil soup with whole-grain bread further increases the protein and creates a more complete amino acid profile.

Is lentil soup good for weight loss?

Lentil soup is an excellent choice for weight loss because it is high in protein and fiber while remaining relatively low in calories. At about 180 calories per cup, it provides substantial volume and satiety, which can help reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day. Studies have shown that regularly consuming legume-based soups is associated with lower body weight and reduced waist circumference.

How does canned lentil soup compare to homemade?

Canned lentil soup is generally similar in macronutrients to homemade, but it often contains significantly more sodium, typically 600 to 800 mg per serving compared to 200 to 400 mg in a homemade version. Some commercial brands also add sugar, preservatives, or thickening agents that increase calorie content. Making lentil soup at home gives you full control over sodium and ingredient quality while typically costing less per serving.

How much do the calories in lentil soup vary by recipe?

Calorie content in lentil soup can vary considerably depending on ingredients and preparation, ranging from about 140 to 250 calories per cup. Adding coconut milk, cream, sausage, or generous amounts of oil can push the calories higher, while a simple broth-based recipe with vegetables stays toward the lower end. The base lentil soup values in this article reflect a standard homemade recipe using olive oil, basic vegetables, and vegetable or chicken broth.