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Lively Lentil & Veggie Delight Soup is a nourishing dish that embodies comfort and health in every bowl. This recipe showcases the versatility of lentils, a powerhouse of nutrition, and combines them with an array of vibrant vegetables. Whether you're looking for a hearty meal on a chilly day or a light lunch option, this soup caters to various dietary preferences, making it a favorite for vegetarians, vegans, and meat lovers alike. Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not just filling; it also supports healthy digestion and offers a plethora of vitamins and minerals.

Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Discover the warmth and flavor of Lively Lentil & Veggie Delight Soup, a nourishing recipe perfect for any season. This hearty soup blends protein-packed lentils with a colorful array of vegetables, creating a wholesome dish that's ideal for vegetarians, vegans, and meat lovers alike. Easy to make and rich in vitamins, it supports healthy eating while satisfying your taste buds. Serve it with crusty bread or a light salad for a balanced meal that anyone will love!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup green or brown lentils, thoroughly rinsed and drained

1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 bell pepper (choose red or yellow), seeded and diced

1 medium zucchini, diced

1 cup diced tomatoes (you can use canned or fresh)

4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium recommended)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 bay leaf

Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

2 cups fresh spinach or kale, roughly chopped

Juice of 1 fresh lemon

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and softens. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, careful not to let it burn.

    Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables start to soften and develop a bit of color.

      Incorporate Lentils and Tomatoes: Add the rinsed lentils, along with the diced tomatoes, to the pot. Mix everything thoroughly, allowing the flavors to combine for about 1 minute.

        Pour in the Broth: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth, then add the dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a vigorous boil.

          Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

            Final Touches: After cooking, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt for a few minutes. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty finish. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

              Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hearty soup into bowls, garnishing each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. For a complete meal, serve alongside crusty bread or your preferred side.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings