The Coziest 20-Minute Lentil Soup Shortcut

Some school nights are basically a race between finishing an assignment, getting to practice, and figuring out what dinner is going to be. That is why I love this lentil soup shortcut. Using Trader Joe’s fresh precooked lentils, mirepoix, and chicken broth makes it taste homemade without requiring a whole afternoon in the kitchen. It is warm, naturally gluten-free, and filling enough to help me recover after sports without feeling heavy. This is the kind of practical recipe I make when I want comfort food but still want to keep my weeknight eating balanced.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 package Trader Joe’s mirepoix, about 10 ounces

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 packages Trader Joe’s fresh precooked lentils

• 6 cups chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 cup of Trader Joes Just Chicken (chopped)

Directions

1. Sauté mirepoix in oil for 6–8 minutes.

2. Add garlic, seasoning, and paprika; cook 30 seconds.

3. Add lentils, chicken and broth. Simmer 15–20 minutes.

4. Season, stir in lemon juice, and serve.