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Fresh parsley adds a burst of flavor and a pop of color to your Cozy Comfort Lentil Soup. This simple garnish not only elevates the presentation but also enhances the overall taste experience. Chopping fresh parsley and sprinkling it over each bowl just before serving can make your dish look even more inviting and appetizing.

Hearty Lentil Soup with Spinach and Carrots

Warm up this winter with a bowl of Cozy Comfort Lentil Soup, the perfect remedy for chilly days. Packed with nutritious lentils, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices, this heartwarming recipe not only nourishes the body but also evokes the warmth of family traditions. It's easy to make, customizable, and ideal for meal prep. Whether you're serving it for dinner or storing leftovers for later, this soup is a delightful addition to your comfort food repertoire. Enjoy the soothing embrace of each spoonful!
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Ingredients
  

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, thoroughly rinsed

1 medium onion, finely diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 medium potato, peeled and diced into small cubes

6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 bay leaf

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Juice of 1 lemon, for serving

Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and slightly soft. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.

    Add the Vegetables: Stir in the diced carrots, celery, and potato. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking, until the vegetables begin to soften slightly.

      Combine Lentils and Spices: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, along with the dried thyme, ground cumin, and bay leaf. Stir well to ensure all the ingredients are mixed together harmoniously.

        Pour in the Broth: Gradually pour in the vegetable broth, making sure that all the lentils and vegetables are fully submerged in the liquid. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rapid boil.

          Simmer the Soup: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Allow the soup to simmer gently for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the pot's bottom.

            Add the Spinach: In the final 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the chopped spinach and cook until it has wilted and incorporated into the soup. Taste your soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.

              Finishing Touches: Carefully remove the bay leaf from the pot, then squeeze in the fresh lemon juice for an added brightness and flavor. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired for an extra burst of color.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 4 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Ladle the soup into deep bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a lemon wedge on the side for an inviting presentation. Enjoy!