Recipe for Winter: Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Recipe for Winter: Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

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Winter is the perfect time for comforting, warm dishes that nourish both body and soul. One such dish that fits this season is a Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup, packed with nutrients and flavor. This plant-based soup is perfect for those cold evenings when you need something cozy and filling. Lentils are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and minerals, while the variety of vegetables provides essential vitamins to help boost immunity during the colder months.

Vegetable Soup Ingredients:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh spinach or kale (optional, for added greens)
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Vegetable Soup Instructions:

  1. Sauté the Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
  2. Add the Lentils and Spices: Stir in the dried lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Simmer: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
  4. Add the Greens (Optional): In the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in fresh spinach or kale if you want to boost the nutrition with extra greens.
  5. Serve: Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning as needed, and serve the soup hot. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of freshness.

Why It’s Perfect for Winter:

This Lentil and Vegetable Soup is not only easy to make but also offers a warm and hearty meal that’s loaded with essential nutrients. Lentils provide a rich source of plant-based protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied. The vegetables add vitamins and antioxidants, helping to boost your immune system during the cold and flu season.

Vegetable Soup Variations:

  • Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
  • If you prefer a creamier texture, blend half the soup using an immersion blender before serving.
  • Serve with crusty bread for an extra cozy meal.

This soup is perfect for meal prep and can easily be stored in the fridge for several days, making it a go-to option for busy winter weeks.

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