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As the seasons change and temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm bowl of soup to nourish both body and soul. Hearty, comforting soups serve as the ultimate remedy for chilly days, providing warmth and satisfaction. Among the myriad of soup recipes that grace our kitchens, the Nourishing Lentil & Veggie Delight Soup stands out as a perfect fusion of nutrition and flavor. This delightful soup is not only a feast for the senses but also an embodiment of healthy eating, making it suitable for any season.

Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Warm up your chilly days with our Nourishing Lentil & Veggie Delight Soup! This hearty recipe combines protein-packed lentils with a colorful array of fresh vegetables, making it a perfect blend of nutrition and flavor. Easy to prepare, this soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, supporting heart health and weight management. Whether you enjoy it as a main dish or a light lunch, every spoonful promises cozy comfort and wholesome goodness. Dive into this culinary delight and savor the warmth!

Ingredients
  

1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup diced potatoes (Yukon gold preferred)

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices

6 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.

    Add the Vegetables: Add the diced carrots, celery, red bell pepper, zucchini, and potatoes to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, allowing them to soften slightly.

      Incorporate Lentils and Spices: Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, ground cumin, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

        Simmer the Soup: Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 30-35 minutes or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and check to ensure the soup doesn’t become too thick; add more broth or water if necessary.

          Finish with Greens: Once the lentils are cooked, add the fresh spinach or kale to the pot. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the greens are wilted. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

            Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy warm with crusty bread or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for added flavor.

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings