We are big soup lovers in my house and eat it at least once a week, all year long. Lentil soup is one of my favorite soups because it’s chock full of vegetables , herbs and flavor. And since it’s easy to make, it’s the ideal dinner for days […]
Click here to view original web page at parade.com
We are big soup lovers in my house and eat it at least once a week, all year long. Lentil soup is one of my favorite soups because it's chock full of vegetables, herbs and flavor. And since it's easy to make, it's the ideal dinner for days when I don’t really feel like cooking, yet still want to put something nourishing on my table.
When I'm looking for an easy meal option that will keep me full for hours, a big bowl of lentil soup is what I reach for! The tiny legumes used to make lentil soup are hearty without being heavy and this soup is a low-calorie, tasty option I can feel good about eating.
What is Lentil Soup?
Like most soups, lentil soup comes in many varieties. Lentil soup is traditionally a vegetarian soup, although there are versions that include meat. I personally don't feel that this soup—which is already packed with protein from the lentils—needs any meat, but I'll leave that decision up to you. Beef could easily be added and would be equally delicious.
Like adding meat, the veggies used in this soup are a matter of personal choice. However, some common vegetables and herbs used to flavor most lentil soups include: carrots, celery, tomatoes, bay leaf and garlic.
Is Lentil Soup Healthy?
There is no denying that lentil soup is not only delicious, but extremely healthy. Lentils on their own are low in fat and calories, but high in protein. When paired with whole grains such as brown rice or pasta (plus whichever veggies you decide to use), the end result is an extremely hearty and healthy soup.
What to Serve With Lentil Soup
The best companion for a bowl of lentil soup is a crusty loaf of bread to sop up all that lentil goodness. This is a thick, brothy, almost stew-like soup made for dipping buttered bread or freshly-torn baguette pieces.
And if you're trying to keep things on the lighter side, a nice side salad also works.
Ingredients Needed
- extra virgin olive oil
- onion
- carrots
- celery
- garlic cloves
- Umbrian (brown) lentils
- whole tomatoes
- stock
- bay leaves
- salt and pepper to taste
- crushed red pepper
- fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Lentil Soup
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add your diced vegetables, and sauté for about 8-10 minutes until they are soft.
- Add garlic and sauté for a few minutes.
- Stir in the lentils.
- Add tomatoes and let simmer together for a few minutes before adding broth or water and the bay leaf.
- Bring to a boil and then lower the heat to a simmer.
- Check the seasoning and add salt and pepper.
- Let simmer for 30 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve!
