15 Lentil Soup Toppings You Must Try

As a lover of hearty soups, I consider lentil soup to be a warm hug on a chilly day.

But why settle for a plain bowl when you can elevate it with an array of tantalizing toppings?

In this article, I’ll share 15 irresistible ideas to take your lentil soup to the next level.

From crispy bacon bits to creamy avocado slices, these toppings will transform your soup into a symphony of flavors.

So, grab your spoon and let’s dive into a world of delicious possibilities.

Crispy Bacon Bits

You should definitely try adding some crispy bacon bits to your lentil soup! The smoky, salty flavor of the bacon complements the earthy taste of the lentils perfectly.

I love how the crispy texture of the bacon adds a satisfying crunch to each spoonful of soup. To make the bacon bits, simply fry some bacon until it becomes crispy and then crumble it into small pieces.

Sprinkle these bacon bits on top of your lentil soup just before serving, and watch how they elevate the dish to a whole new level. The combination of the rich lentils, savory broth, and crispy bacon creates a comforting and indulgent soup that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds.

Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness!

Freshly Chopped Cilantro

Freshly chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness to the lentil soup. When I sprinkle a handful of this vibrant herb on top of my steaming bowl of lentil soup, it instantly elevates the flavors and adds a delightful pop of color.

The fragrance of cilantro hits my nose, making my mouth water in anticipation. As I take the first spoonful, the combination of earthy lentils and zesty cilantro dances on my palate, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. The herb’s bright and citrusy notes cut through the richness of the soup, making each spoonful a refreshing experience.

Not only does cilantro enhance the taste, but it also adds a visual appeal, making the soup look even more appetizing. For me, cilantro is an essential topping that brings a refreshing twist to my lentil soup.

Tangy Lemon Zest

When adding tangy lemon zest to your lentil soup, it brings a burst of refreshing citrus flavor. I love how the zesty lemon brightens up the earthy taste of the lentils, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

As I sprinkle the lemon zest over the steaming bowl of soup, the aroma instantly fills the room, making my mouth water in anticipation. With each spoonful, the tangy zest dances on my taste buds, adding a zing that takes the soup to a whole new level.

It’s like a burst of sunshine in every bite, awakening my senses and bringing a sense of freshness to the dish. The lemon zest adds a delightful tang that complements the hearty lentils perfectly, making it a must-try topping for your lentil soup.

Creamy Avocado Slices

As I slice the creamy avocado, its smooth texture and rich flavor instantly elevate the lentil soup.

The vibrant green hue of the avocado contrasts beautifully with the earthy tones of the soup, enhancing its visual appeal.

The velvety texture of the avocado slices adds a luxurious creaminess to each spoonful of soup, creating a delightful mouthfeel.

With each bite, the avocado releases its buttery flavor, providing a subtle richness that complements the hearty lentils perfectly.

The avocado’s mild taste allows the other flavors in the soup to shine, while still adding a touch of indulgence.

It’s a simple yet elegant addition that takes the lentil soup to a whole new level, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal.

Spicy Jalapeno Rings

I love the fiery kick that the spicy jalapeno rings bring to any dish. They add a burst of heat that tantalizes my taste buds and elevates the flavor to a whole new level.

Whether I’m enjoying a bowl of lentil soup or indulging in a plate of nachos, these jalapeno rings never disappoint. The vibrant green color and the crunchy texture make them a delightful addition to any meal.

I can’t help but crave the intense heat and the zesty flavor that they bring. It’s like a party in my mouth, leaving me wanting more with each bite.

So if you’re a fan of spicy food like me, don’t hesitate to sprinkle some jalapeno rings on your next dish. You won’t be disappointed.

Crunchy Toasted Almonds

The crunchy toasted almonds are a delicious and satisfying snack option. I love snacking on them because they provide a perfect combination of crunchiness and nutty flavor. The toasting process brings out the natural oils in the almonds, making them even more flavorful. I enjoy the slight smokiness that comes with the toasting, and it adds an extra layer of depth to the taste.

Not only are they tasty, but almonds are also a nutritious choice. They are packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making them a great option for a quick and energizing snack. I often carry a small bag of toasted almonds with me to work or when I’m on the go, and they always keep me satisfied until my next meal.

Savory Parmesan Shavings

Savory Parmesan shavings add a burst of flavor to any dish. I love sprinkling them on top of my lentil soup. The sharp and salty taste of the Parmesan perfectly complements the earthy flavors of the lentils.

As I take a spoonful of soup, the Parmesan melts and creates a creamy texture that enhances the overall experience. It adds a delightful richness that elevates the humble lentil soup to a whole new level.

The nutty aroma of the Parmesan fills the air, making every bite a true delight. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, adding Parmesan shavings to my lentil soup is a simple yet effective way to make it more delicious and satisfying.

Zesty Lime Juice

To enhance your dish with a burst of tangy flavor, squeeze some zesty lime juice over it. Lime juice is a versatile and refreshing ingredient that can elevate the taste of any meal.

When I add a squeeze of lime juice to my dishes, it instantly brightens the flavors and adds a tangy kick. Whether it’s drizzling lime juice over a grilled chicken salad or adding it to a bowl of spicy lentil soup, the citrusy taste of lime brings a delightful zing.

The acidity of the lime juice also helps to balance out rich or heavy flavors, making it the perfect addition to dishes that need a little extra punch. So, next time you’re looking to add some excitement to your meal, reach for a juicy lime and let its zesty goodness take your taste buds on a flavorful journey.

Fragrant Garlic Oil

When making garlic oil, all you need is a few cloves of garlic, some olive oil, and a bit of patience. I love adding a drizzle of fragrant garlic oil to enhance the flavors of my favorite dishes. It’s incredibly simple to make and adds a delicious aroma to any meal.

First, I peel and thinly slice a few cloves of garlic. Then, I heat some olive oil in a pan over low heat. Once the oil is warm, I add the garlic slices and let them cook slowly until they turn golden brown. The key is to be patient and let the flavors infuse gradually.

Once the garlic is crispy and fragrant, I strain the oil and store it in a jar. This homemade garlic oil is perfect for drizzling over pasta, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for bread. It’s a versatile and flavorful addition to any kitchen.

Smoky Chipotle Sauce

If you’re looking for a bold and spicy sauce to add a kick to your dishes, try making smoky chipotle sauce. It’s my personal favorite when it comes to adding a smoky and fiery flavor to any meal.

To make it, you’ll need a few key ingredients: chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic, onion, tomato paste, vinegar, and a touch of honey for sweetness.

Start by sautéing the garlic and onion until they’re fragrant and translucent. Then, add the chipotle peppers, tomato paste, vinegar, and honey, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.

Finally, blend everything together until you have a smooth and smoky sauce. This chipotle sauce is perfect for drizzling over tacos, burgers, roasted vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce for fries.

It adds a delicious smoky heat that will elevate any dish to the next level. Give it a try and prepare to be amazed!

Sweet Caramelized Onions

For a burst of sweetness and depth of flavor in your dishes, caramelized onions are a must-have ingredient. They are incredibly versatile and can elevate the taste of any dish, from soups to sandwiches.

To make caramelized onions, I start by thinly slicing a large onion and sautéing it in a pan with a little bit of butter or oil. I cook them over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they turn a deep golden brown color. The slow cooking process brings out the natural sugars in the onions, resulting in a rich and sweet flavor.

The caramelized onions add a touch of elegance to any dish and are sure to impress your guests. Whether you’re topping a burger or stirring them into a risotto, caramelized onions are a game-changer.

Tangy Greek Yogurt

To add a tangy and creamy element to your dishes, try incorporating Greek yogurt as a versatile ingredient.

I absolutely love using Greek yogurt in my recipes because it adds a delightful tanginess and a creamy texture that enhances any dish. Whether I’m making a refreshing tzatziki sauce or adding a dollop of yogurt to my morning smoothie, it never fails to impress.

Not only does Greek yogurt bring a unique flavor profile to my meals, but it also packs a punch in terms of nutritional value. It’s high in protein and calcium, making it a healthier alternative to sour cream or mayonnaise.

Nutty Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

The nutty flavor and crunchy texture of roasted pumpkin seeds make them a delicious and healthy snack option. I love roasting pumpkin seeds myself because it’s so easy and the results are incredibly satisfying.

First, I scoop out the seeds from a fresh pumpkin and rinse them well. Then, I pat them dry and toss them with a bit of olive oil and some salt. I spread them out on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until they turn golden brown. The aroma that fills my kitchen is simply irresistible!

Once they cool down, I can’t help but munch on them, savoring their rich, nutty flavor. They’re perfect for snacking on their own or adding a crunchy topping to salads, soups, or even desserts. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients like magnesium, iron, and zinc, making them a healthy choice too.

Freshly Ground Black Pepper

After enjoying the delightful crunch of Nutty Roasted Pumpkin Seeds in my lentil soup, I can’t help but mention another essential topping that elevates the flavors: freshly ground black pepper.

As I grind the pepper mill over my steaming bowl, the aroma fills the air, awakening my taste buds in anticipation. With just a few twists, the earthy and slightly spicy notes of the pepper add a wonderful depth to the soup’s overall taste.

The black specks scattered throughout the soup not only provide visual appeal but also offer a burst of flavor with every spoonful. This simple addition enhances the natural flavors of the lentils and complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Freshly ground black pepper is a must-try topping that brings a delightful kick to your lentil soup.

Herb-infused Olive Oil

As I pour the herb-infused olive oil over my steaming bowl, the fragrant aromas mingle with the soup, enhancing its flavors.

The herb-infused olive oil is a delightful addition to lentil soup, adding a burst of freshness and complexity. The combination of herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and basil, infused into the oil creates a symphony of flavors that elevate the humble lentil soup to new heights.

The aromatic herbs infuse the oil with their essence, infusing every spoonful of soup with a vibrant and savory taste. The smooth and silky texture of the olive oil also adds a luxurious touch to the soup, making each bite a comforting and indulgent experience.

With every spoonful, the herb-infused olive oil brings a burst of flavor that transforms a simple lentil soup into a culinary masterpiece.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! Lentil soup is the perfect canvas for a myriad of toppings. Its delicious and nutritious base provides the ideal foundation for a flavorful culinary adventure.

From the crispy bacon bits that add a salty crunch to the creamy avocado slices that melt in your mouth, these toppings are like the stars in a soup galaxy.

So go ahead, get creative, and let your soup shine with these 15 must-try toppings. Your taste buds will thank you!