Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup: A Nutritious Recipe

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Hearty Vegetable Lentil Soup: A Nutritious Recipe

Looking for a comforting and healthy meal? This vegetable and lentil soup recipe is packed with nutrients, easy to make, and perfect for a chilly day. It’s a delicious way to load up on veggies and plant-based protein! — LA Haunted Hayride: A Spooky Halloween Tradition

Why You'll Love This Soup

  • Nutritious: Lentils are a great source of fiber and protein, while vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals.
  • Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal effort and can be made in one pot.
  • Versatile: Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand.
  • Budget-Friendly: Lentils and vegetables are affordable ingredients.

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 6 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: lemon wedges, fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add garlic, thyme, and smoked paprika and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add Lentils and Broth: Stir in lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
  3. Incorporate Greens: Stir in kale or spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking time. Cook until wilted.
  4. Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with a squeeze of lemon and fresh parsley, if desired.

Tips and Variations

  • Add Protein: For extra protein, add cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu.
  • Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
  • Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or heavy cream at the end for a richer soup.
  • Use Different Vegetables: Try adding sweet potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers.

Health Benefits of Lentil Soup

Lentil soup isn't just delicious; it's incredibly good for you. The high fiber content aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Lentils are also packed with iron, which is essential for energy and overall health. This soup is a fantastic way to get a balanced and nutritious meal. — Gigi: Understanding The Cause Of Death

Perfect For Meal Prep

This vegetable lentil soup is also perfect for meal prep. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be easily reheated. Make a big batch on Sunday, and you'll have healthy lunches or dinners ready to go throughout the week.

Enjoy this comforting and nourishing vegetable lentil soup! Experiment with different vegetables and spices to make it your own. — Spotify Logo: History, Evolution, And Meaning

Try it tonight and share your creations! #vegetablesoup #lentilsoup #healthyrecipes