LENTIL VEGETABLE SOUP

Lentil Vegetable Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 cans (15-ounce each) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup uncooked lentils, green or brown
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1½ teaspoons salt (or more to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper or red pepper flakes
• 5 ounces spinach (about 4 to 5 cups), chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
   • Wash and dice the carrots, onion, and celery.
   • Mince the garlic cloves.

1. Saute Aromatics:
   • Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
   • Add diced carrots, onion, and celery to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
2. Add Seasonings:
   • Stir in cumin and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • Pour in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, uncooked lentils, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and pepper (or red pepper flakes). Stir well to combine all ingredients.
4. Simmer Soup:
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes until the lentils are tender.
5. Add Spinach:
   • Stir in the chopped spinach and let it wilt into the soup. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach is tender.
6. Adjust Seasoning:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed by adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the hot lentil vegetable soup into bowls and serve it warm.

This wholesome lentil vegetable soup is nutritious and comforting, perfect for a cozy and satisfying meal! Enjoy!