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As winter's chill descends and the days grow shorter, there’s something inherently comforting about a steaming bowl of soup. For many, soup embodies the essence of warmth and coziness—a remedy for the cold, a nostalgic reminder of home-cooked meals. Among the myriad of soup recipes, my personal favorite is the Nourishing Lentil Delight Soup. This hearty concoction is more than just a meal; it’s a blend of flavors and nutrients that warms both the body and soul. Today, I’m thrilled to share this delightful recipe, one that has firmly established itself as a staple in my kitchen.

Hearty Lentil Vegetable Soup

Warm up this winter with a bowl of Nourishing Lentil Delight Soup, a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for cozy nights. Packed with protein-rich lentils and a colorful mix of fresh vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also loaded with nutrients. Easy to make and great for meal prep, it’s a fantastic option for weeknight dinners. Follow the simple recipe to create a satisfying meal that warms both body and soul, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 large onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 zucchini, diced

1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)

6 cups vegetable broth

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon turmeric

½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

¼ teaspoon black pepper

1 bay leaf

2 cups kale or spinach, chopped

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Juice of 1 lemon (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

    Add Vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for an additional 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

      Incorporate Lentils and Spices: Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Mix well to coat the lentils and vegetables with the spices.

        Pour in Broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

          Add Greens: Once the lentils are cooked, remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped kale or spinach. Allow it to cook for another 5 minutes until the greens are wilted.

            Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in the lemon juice for a refreshing touch.

              Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy hot with crusty bread!

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 6