Today, I’m excited to share a heartwarming recipe for a classic Italian vegetable lentil soup. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a perfect choice for a cozy dinner. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the steps to create this comforting soup.
Lentil Soup (Italian Vegetable)
To start off, here’s a beautiful image of the lentil soup that captures its vibrant colors and inviting aroma.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups spinach leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent.
- Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, dried oregano, and bay leaf. Stir well and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the rinsed lentils and diced tomatoes, and stir to combine. Then, add the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Finally, stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Remove the bay leaf, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, and enjoy each comforting spoonful of this delicious lentil soup!
This lentil soup is perfect for keeping you warm on chilly days. With its rich flavors and healthy ingredients, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy cooking and indulging in this delightful dish!