41 Delicious Pairings to Serve with Lentil Soup

Lentil soup: it’s warm, comforting, and a staple in many kitchens. But what do you serve with it to make that bowl of goodness into a full-fledged meal?

We’ve all been there, pondering what would be the perfect accompaniment. So let’s dive in together!

First, we’ll quickly remind ourselves what makes lentil soup such a beloved classic, and then we’ll explore a flavorful list of pairings that’ll turn your next bowl into a feast.

What is Lentil Soup?

Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish made by simmering lentils with various vegetables, herbs, and spices. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, offering both comfort and nourishment. Whether it’s spiced with cumin and coriander or enriched with tomatoes and carrots, lentil soup can take on many delicious variations.

It’s often enjoyed as a starter or a main course, especially in vegetarian diets, thanks to the high protein content of lentils.

Now that we’re all drooling a little, let’s explore the list of pairings below that can turn your lentil soup into a complete and satisfying meal!

All recipes are cozily tucked into their own categories, just so you can find your perfect dish swiftly. Go ahead, use the navigation to hop, skip, and jump around!

Bread

Ever consider the simple joy of dipping a piece of bread into a warm bowl of lentil soup? It could be a crusty baguette, a rich piece of naan, or even some homemade focaccia. There’s something comforting about the way the chewy texture of bread meets the smooth consistency of the soup.

Not a baker? No worries! Even a store-bought pita can do the trick. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try your hand at baking? Either way, it’s all about finding the perfect match for your style of lentil soup and how much effort you want to put into the meal.

Bread and soup, such a classic combo, yet it never gets old. Whether you’re going for convenience or embracing your inner baker, these pairings take lentil soup from something simple to a meal that feels just right, every single time.

Try it next time you whip up a batch; you might find your new favorite comfort food!

Baguette

A fresh, crusty baguette bought from the store offers a convenient and delightful textural contrast to lentil soup. Its crispy exterior and soft interior are perfect for dipping and soaking up the soup’s rich flavors.

(Baguetees pair well with all sorts of soups, including Italian wedding soup and ham and bean soup.)

Sourdough Bread

If purchased from a skilled baker or made at home, sourdough bread’s unique tanginess and chewy crust can be a wonderful complement to lentil soup. Its complex flavors align well with the depth of the soup.

Pita Bread

This Pita Bread recipe pairs perfectly with lentil soup because the warm, fluffy bread is the ideal vessel for scooping up every last bit of the hearty soup.

The combination of the soft, chewy bread and the rich, comforting flavors of the lentil soup will leave you feeling satisfied and cozy. Plus, making your own pita bread is easier than you think, and the homemade touch will make your lentil soup experience even more special.

Craving this? Check out the Pita Bread recipe from smitten kitchen.

Garlic Bread

This garlic bread recipe is the perfect companion to a warm bowl of lentil soup.

The crispy crust and flavorful garlic butter will elevate your soup experience to a whole new level. The simplicity of the recipe allows for a quick and easy preparation, making it an ideal choice for a cozy night in.

So go ahead, give it a try, and indulge in the delightful combination of this garlic bread with a hearty lentil soup. You won’t be disappointed!

Check out this delicious Better-Than-Dominos Garlic Bread recipe from RecipeTin Eats.

Herb and Garlic Naan Bread

Looking for another option to pair with your comforting lentil soup? Why not give this herb and garlic naan bread recipe a try?

With its soft and fluffy texture, infused with the aromatic flavors of garlic and herbs, it’s the perfect companion to dip into your hearty soup. Plus, it’s easy to make and requires simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry.

This homemade naan bread will take your soup experience to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Tempted to cook this? Herb and Garlic Naan Bread from Seasons and Suppers is where you find the whole recipe.

Olive and Herb Focaccia

If you’re looking for the perfect companion to your hearty lentil soup, look no further than this irresistible olive and herb focaccia.

With its soft and fluffy texture, infused with the flavors of olives and mixed herbs, this bread is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of savory olives and fragrant herbs will elevate your soup experience to a whole new level.

So why not give this simple yet delicious recipe a try and indulge in the delightful pairing of lentil soup and homemade focaccia?

Sounds like something up your alley? Here’s the Olive and Herb Focaccia recipe, courtesy of Eight Forest Lane.

Salads

Thinking about what to serve with your lentil soup? How about a fresh salad? It could be something as simple as a bed of greens, or maybe a zestier Greek salad, or even a crunchy slaw.

Imagine that crisp freshness against the warm heartiness of the soup, especially with a splash of bright vinaigrette or lemony dressing. It’s like a palate cleanser in every bite, making the soup taste even better.

You could whip up something quick or get fancy with more elaborate recipes. It’s all about what fits the mood and your lentil soup’s style.

Want a delicate contrast or a bolder flavor combo? These salads can do it all, turning a simple bowl of soup into a meal that feels just right, no matter the occasion. Give it a try; it might just become your favorite pairing!

Simple Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

A great accompaniment to your lentil soup is a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette.

It’s a refreshing and light dish that perfectly complements the heartiness of the soup. The tanginess of the lemon vinaigrette adds a burst of flavor to the crisp mixed greens, juicy baby tomatoes, and crunchy carrots.

With just a few minutes of preparation, you can enjoy this vibrant salad that balances the flavors of your lentil soup.

Craving this? Check out the Simple Green Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette recipe from Minimalist Baker.

Cucumber and Tomato Salad

This cucumber and tomato salad recipe pairs perfectly with lentil soup because the crispness of the cucumbers and the sweetness of the grape tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of the soup.

The tangy and zesty dressing adds a burst of flavor that complements the earthy lentils. Plus, the vibrant colors of the salad will brighten up your bowl of soup and make it a more visually appealing and satisfying meal.

Feeling inspired? Try this Cucumber Tomato Salad + Video from The Slow Roasted Italian.

Greek Salad

Looking for a refreshing and flavorful side dish to pair with your lentil soup? Look no further than this delicious Greek salad recipe!

With juicy tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, tangy feta cheese, and a zesty homemade dressing, this salad is the perfect complement to a hearty bowl of lentil soup. The combination of fresh vegetables and savory flavors will add a burst of freshness to your meal, making it a satisfying and well-balanced option.

Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!

Whip up this Greek Salad from Spend With Pennies.

Carrot Salad

Carrot salad makes for a perfect companion to a hearty bowl of lentil soup.

The refreshing crunch of the grated carrots and the sweet tanginess of the apple create a delightful contrast to the warm and comforting lentils. The zesty combination of orange juice and apple cider vinegar in the dressing adds a burst of flavor that complements the earthy lentils beautifully.

So, why not give this simple and delicious carrot salad a try alongside your next bowl of lentil soup? You won’t be disappointed!

Whip up this Carrot Salad from Plated Cravings.

Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad

Grilled vegetable orzo salad is another fantastic choice to accompany your lentil soup.

The combination of the smoky grilled vegetables and the refreshing orzo salad creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The grilled vegetables add a satisfying charred taste, while the orzo salad brings a light and tangy element to the meal.

This pairing will elevate your lentil soup experience to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Sounds like something up your alley? Here’s the Grilled Vegetable Orzo Salad recipe, courtesy of Last Ingredient.

(Speaking of which, we have a whole article on what to serve with orzo salad, in case you’re interested.)

Roasted Beet Salad

Roasted beet salad is another delicious choice to pair with a warm bowl of lentil soup.

The combination of the sweet roasted butternut squash, earthy beets, creamy goat cheese, and crunchy pecans creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures that perfectly complement the heartiness of the lentil soup. The vibrant colors of the salad will also add a pop of freshness to your meal, making it even more appetizing.

Loving this? Roasted Beet Salad on Simple Joy is where you find the instruction.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Pomegranate Salad

If you’re looking for a refreshing and vibrant side dish to pair with your hearty lentil soup, this shaved brussels sprouts and pomegranate salad is just what you need.

The combination of thinly sliced brussels sprouts, juicy pomegranate arils, and tangy goat cheese creates a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The zesty lemon balsamic vinaigrette adds a refreshing kick that perfectly complements the earthy lentil soup.

Give this salad a try, and you’ll have a satisfying and well-rounded meal that will leave you feeling nourished and satisfied.

Loving this? Shaved Brussels Sprouts and Pomegranate Salad with Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette on Yay! For Food is where you find the instruction.

Roasted Butternut Salad

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty side dish to pair with your lentil soup, this roasted butternut salad recipe is a must-try!

With its flavorful combination of roasted butternut squash, crunchy pecans, tangy goat cheese, and sweet dried cherries, this salad adds a burst of vibrant colors and textures to your meal. The warm spices and homemade vinaigrette perfectly complement the earthy flavors of lentils, creating a satisfying and well-balanced meal.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Explore Roasted Butternut Salad on A Cookie Named Desire for more.

Cheeses and Spreads

Thinking about pairing lentil soup with something creamy or tangy? You might want to try cheeses like feta or goat cheese, or perhaps spreads like hummus or olive tapenade.

Imagine spreading them on a cracker or piece of bread – that texture against the smooth lentils is just delightful. Whether you’re in the mood for something simple and quick or want to get creative with more complex recipes, these options bring a whole new level of satisfaction to your meal.

Looking for that full dining experience with lentil soup? These accompaniments might be exactly what you need, whether you pick something up at the store or whip it up at home. It’s all about finding what makes your taste buds sing and taking your lentil soup to new delicious heights.

Feta Cheese

Simply crumbled over crackers or bread, feta cheese offers a tangy and salty contrast to lentil soup. Its briny flavor can cut through the richness of the soup, adding an appealing Mediterranean twist.

Whipped Goat Cheese

This whipped goat cheese spread is another delicious option to consider when pairing with lentil soup.

The creamy and tangy flavor of the whipped goat cheese perfectly complements the earthy and hearty taste of the lentils. The addition of the homemade everything bagel seasoning adds a delightful crunch and burst of flavor to each bite.

This combination will take your lentil soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Explore Everything Bagel Seasoning Whipped Goat Cheese on Snixy Kitchen for more.

Best Hummus

If you’re looking for a creamy and flavorful side dish to pair with your lentil soup, this best hummus recipe is just what you need.

With its smooth texture and tangy taste, it perfectly complements the heartiness of the soup. The combination of chickpeas, tahini, and zesty lemon juice creates a delightful balance of flavors that will elevate your soup experience.

Tempted to cook this? Best Hummus from Cookie and Kate is where you find the whole recipe.

Olive Tapenade

Looking to add a burst of flavor to your lentil soup? Look no further than this olive tapenade recipe!

With its tangy kalamata olives, zesty lemon, and aromatic herbs, this vegan and super-easy tapenade will elevate your soup to a whole new level. The smooth yet textured consistency of the tapenade perfectly complements the heartiness of lentil soup, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Give it a try and prepare to be amazed by the delightful combination of these two dishes!

Feeling inspired? Try this Oil-Free Olive Tapenade {vegan, super-easy} from Power Hungry®.

(By the way, olive tapenade pairs well with focaccia.)

Homemade Herb Ricotta

This homemade herb ricotta recipe offers a creamy and flavorful addition to your lentil soup.

The combination of the rich milk and cream, tangy buttermilk, and fresh herbs creates a delightful contrast to the hearty lentils. The process of making the ricotta is straightforward, and the end result is worth the effort.

Treat yourself to this amazing Homemade Herb Ricotta from SoupAddict.

Vegetables

Vegetables, whether simple and steamed or rich and smoky, have a way of elevating the soup’s complexity.

You don’t have to be a chef to pull this off; quick and easy preparations can be just as delightful. But if you want to dive into something more intricate and flavorful, there are plenty of options for that too.

Whether it’s a light touch or a bolder addition you’re after, these veggies can be your perfect sidekick to lentil soup. It’s all about finding what suits your taste and your soup.

Steamed Broccoli

Steamed Broccoli is another option that you must try as a perfect pairing to your lentil soup.

The tender and crisp broccoli florets, tossed with the tangy feta cheese and the subtle hint of red onions, create a delightful combination that will elevate your soup experience. Not only does it add a vibrant burst of color to your meal, but it also provides a refreshing and nutritious balance to the heartiness of the lentil soup.

Sounds like something up your alley? Here’s the BEST Steamed Broccoli recipe, courtesy of A Couple Cooks.

Sautéed Spinach

Sauteed Spinach is another fantastic choice to accompany your lentil soup.

The vibrant green color and tender texture of the spinach perfectly complement the heartiness of the soup. With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful side dish that adds a burst of freshness to your meal. The sauteed garlic and shallots infuse the spinach with a savory aroma, making it an irresistible addition to your lentil soup.

Sounds interesting? Check out this Sauteed Spinach from Amanda’s Cookin’.

Herbed Cream Cheese Grilled Bell Pepper Boats

This recipe offers a delightful twist to your lentil soup by adding a burst of flavors and textures. The herbed cream cheese brings a creamy and savory element, perfectly complementing the earthy lentils. The grilled bell pepper boats provide a fresh and vibrant touch, adding a hint of smokiness to the overall dish.

It’s a simple yet satisfying combination that will elevate your lentil soup to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Fancy this? Check out Herbed Cream Cheese Grilled Bell Pepper Boats from Homemade In The Kitchen.

Roasted Zucchini and Tomatoes

This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures that would perfectly complement a warm bowl of lentil soup.

The roasted zucchini and tomatoes bring a burst of freshness and a hint of sweetness, while the balsamic vinegar adds a tangy kick. The caramelization on the tomatoes adds a touch of depth to the dish.

Give it a try, and you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.

Fancy this? Check out Roasted Zucchini & Tomatoes from One Lovely Life.

Grilled Eggplant

This grilled eggplant recipe pairs perfectly with lentil soup because it adds a delicious and smoky flavor that complements the earthy taste of the soup.

The charred and tender eggplant slices provide a satisfying texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy consistency of the lentils. Plus, the Italian seasoning and garlic powder in the recipe enhance the overall flavor profile, making it a delightful and comforting combination to enjoy on a chilly evening.

Loving this? Grilled Eggplant Recipe (Quick & Easy!) on Wholesome Yum | Easy healthy recipes. 10 ingredients or less. is where you find the instruction.

Roasted Root Vegetables with Herb Dressing

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty side dish to pair with your lentil soup, this roasted root vegetables with herb dressing recipe is the perfect choice.

The combination of carrots, parsnips, potatoes, and onions, roasted to perfection with fragrant herbs, creates a delightful medley of flavors and textures. The crispy exterior and tender interior of these veggies will complement the heartiness of the lentil soup, making every spoonful a comforting and satisfying experience.

Here’s the Roasted Root Vegetables with Herb Dressing recipe if you’re interested, courtesy of A Saucy Kitchen.

Grains and Rice

Thinking of adding a little extra to your lentil soup? Why not throw in some grains like brown rice, quinoa, or couscous? Not only do they make the meal more filling, but they also blend beautifully with the soup, creating a wholesome experience.

You can keep it simple with quick preparations, or if you’re feeling creative, explore some more flavorful recipes. From the homestyle comfort of buttered couscous to the refined taste of wild rice pilaf, these grains can match any style of lentil soup.

So next time you’re serving up a bowl of lentil soup, consider these grain-based sides. Whether it’s a casual lunch or a fancy dinner, they’ll add that perfect touch of nutrition and satisfaction.

Instant Pot Brown Rice

If you’re looking for the perfect side dish to complement your lentil soup, this instant pot brown rice recipe is just what you need.

With its fluffy and tender texture, it will provide a delightful contrast to the hearty lentils. Plus, the simplicity of this recipe means you can whip up a batch in no time, making it a convenient and delicious addition to your meal.

Let’s get cooking with this Instant Pot Brown Rice from Detoxinista.

Pearl Couscous

Pearl couscous is another option to consider when looking for a delicious side dish to pair with lentil soup.

Its unique texture and nutty flavor perfectly complement the heartiness of the soup, creating a satisfying and well-balanced meal. With just a handful of simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, this recipe will not only add variety to your dinner table but also impress your taste buds.

Dive into deliciousness with this Pearl Couscous from Garlic & Zest.

Mediterranean Quinoa Salad

This Mediterranean quinoa salad recipe pairs perfectly with lentil soup because it brings a refreshing and vibrant element to the comforting and hearty flavors of the soup.

The combination of the tangy lemon dressing, crisp cucumber, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives adds a delightful contrast to the earthy lentils. Plus, the protein-packed quinoa and chickpeas in the salad make it a satisfying and nutritious addition to your meal.

Feeling hungry? Take a look at Mediterranean Quinoa Salad on Connoisseurus Veg.

Wild Rice Pilaf

This wild rice pilaf recipe pairs perfectly with lentil soup because it adds a delightful texture and flavor to the meal.

The combination of the plump and tender wild rice, the aromatic thyme, and the sweet cranberries creates a delicious contrast to the hearty lentils. Plus, the crunch of the pecans adds a satisfying element that will make your taste buds sing.

Give your taste buds a treat with this Wild Rice Pilaf + Video from Kevin Is Cooking.

Meats and Proteins

Ever thought about turning your lentil soup into the star of the meal? Pairing it with some grilled chicken, lamb kebabs, or maybe some pan-fried tofu can do just that. From light and simple to rich and robust, these proteins make the soup feel like a complete, hearty meal.

What’s really cool is how these meats, or even vegetarian alternatives like tempeh, seem to dance with the spices in the soup, creating a balanced flavor that’s just so satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for meat-lovers, vegetarians, or a mix of both, there’s something here for everyone.

Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken

Grilled cilantro lime chicken is another fantastic option to complement your delicious lentil soup.

The tangy and refreshing flavors of lime and cilantro in the chicken will perfectly balance the earthy richness of the soup. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a quick marinade, this recipe will add a burst of flavor to your meal.

Tempted to cook this? Grilled Cilantro Lime Chicken from NatashasKitchen.com is where you find the whole recipe.

Pan-Fried Teriyaki Tofu

This pan-fried teriyaki tofu recipe pairs perfectly with lentil soup because its savory and slightly sweet flavors complement the earthy and hearty taste of the soup.

The crispy texture of the tofu adds a delightful contrast to the softness of the lentils, creating a satisfying and balanced meal. Plus, the simple preparation of the tofu allows you to focus on enjoying the comforting flavors of the soup while adding a touch of Asian-inspired flair to your meal.

Tempted to cook this? Pan-Fried Teriyaki Tofu from Healthy Nibbles by Lisa Lin is where you find the whole recipe.

Greek Lamb Kebabs (Lamb Souvlaki)

This Greek lamb kebabs recipe pairs perfectly with lentil soup because the flavorful and juicy lamb, combined with the tangy marinade, adds a delightful contrast to the earthy and comforting lentil soup.

The vibrant flavors of the kebabs will complement the richness of the soup, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Plus, the freshness of the cucumber spears and salad leaves, along with the creamy tzatziki, will provide a refreshing and cooling element to balance out the warmth of the soup.

Tempted to cook this? Greek Lamb Kebabs (Lamb Souvlaki) from Sugar Salt Magic is where you find the whole recipe.

Turkey Meatballs

Turkey meatballs are another delicious option to consider when pairing with lentil soup.

The combination of the flavorful meatballs and the hearty lentils will create a satisfying and well-rounded meal. The tender meatballs, infused with herbs and spices, will add a delightful texture and taste to the comforting lentil soup.

Dive into deliciousness with this Crockpot Turkey Meatballs from Sally’s Baking Addiction.

Tempeh in Creamy Mushroom Coconut Sauce

Tempeh in creamy mushroom coconut sauce is another fantastic choice to pair with a comforting bowl of lentil soup. The rich and savory flavors of the tempeh, combined with the creamy coconut sauce and earthy mushrooms, will add a delightful contrast to the warmth and heartiness of the lentil soup. The tempeh’s marinade infuses it with a delicious depth of flavor, while the sauce provides a creamy and satisfying element to complement the lentils.

Tempted to cook this? Tempeh in Creamy Mushroom Coconut Sauce from Full of Plants is where you find the whole recipe.

Spicy Chicken Stuffed with Feta Cheese and Salsa

Here’s another delicious option to pair with lentil soup: spicy chicken stuffed with feta cheese and salsa.

This flavorful dish adds a kick to your meal and the combination of tender chicken, tangy feta, and zesty salsa creates a burst of flavors in every bite. It’s a simple recipe that requires just a few ingredients and minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying dinner.

Treat yourself to this amazing Spicy Chicken Stuffed with Feta Cheese and Salsa from Slimming Eats.

Pickled Items and Olives

Ever tried pairing lentil soup with something tangy or salty? Sounds a bit out of the box, right? But trust me, pickled vegetables and olives can make your soup sing in a whole new way!

Imagine taking a bite of a rich, warming lentil soup and then hitting it with a tangy marinated artichoke or a salty olive. It’s like a flavor rollercoaster, awakening your palate and adding a refreshing twist to those earthy lentil flavors.

From a simple handful of olives to some sweet-and-sour pickled cucumbers, there’s a world of exciting options out there. But be warned, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all pairing. It’s a bit of a culinary adventure, and what works for one bowl of soup might not work for another.

Mixed Olive Platter

A simple selection of green and black olives, possibly marinated in herbs and olive oil, provides a salty and briny contrast that cuts through the richness of lentil soup.

Pickled Cucumbers

Pickled cucumbers offer a refreshing tanginess. The contrast in texture and taste with lentil soup adds complexity and freshness.

Pickled Red Onions

Looking for a tangy and flavorful addition to your lentil soup? Give this pickled red onion recipe a try!

With its zesty combination of red wine vinegar, seasoned rice wine vinegar, and a touch of agave nectar, these pickled onions will add a delightful burst of flavor to your soup. The overnight refrigeration allows the onions to soak up all the delicious spices, making them the perfect accompaniment to your hearty lentil soup.

Fancy this? Check out Pickled Red Onions from Delish D’Lites.

Feta-stuffed Olives

Stuffed with salty feta cheese, these olives create a more complex flavor combination that pairs nicely with the deep flavors of the soup.

Quick Pickled Radishes for Tacos

This quick pickled radish recipe offers a tangy and refreshing twist to complement the heartiness of lentil soup.

The zesty flavors of the pickled radishes will add a delightful crunch and a burst of acidity that perfectly balances the rich and comforting lentil soup. It’s a simple and easy addition that will elevate your soup experience and bring a new level of excitement to your taste buds.

Give it a try and discover how this pairing can transform your lentil soup into a truly satisfying and flavorful meal.

Feeling hungry? Take a look at Quick Pickled Radishes for Tacos on Lena’s Kitchen.

Marinated Artichokes

Marinated in herbs and oil, artichokes bring a sophisticated touch. The slightly sour and tender artichokes can be served on the side or chopped and added on top of the soup, enhancing the flavor and texture.