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As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, there’s nothing quite like a warm, nourishing bowl of soup to wrap us in comfort. This sentiment resonates deeply with many, as the onset of cooler weather often evokes memories of family kitchens filled with the rich aromas of simmering ingredients. For me, those cherished moments are intertwined with the image of my grandmother standing by the stove, her apron dusted with flour and spices, skillfully blending flavors that would fill our home with warmth and love. One of her favorite recipes was a hearty lentil soup, brimming with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, which not only nourished our bodies but our souls too. Today, I’m excited to share with you my take on that cherished recipe—Nourishing Lentil Delight Soup.

Hearty Lentil Vegetable Soup

Warm up this season with a delicious bowl of Nourishing Lentil Delight Soup. Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant veggies, and aromatic spices, this comforting recipe is both healthy and easy to make. Relish in the rich flavors as you sauté onions, garlic, and a medley of colorful vegetables, then let it simmer to perfection. Perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep, this soup is sure to nourish both body and soul. Discover how to create a bowl of warmth that brings back fond memories in the kitchen!
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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 it becomes translucent, which will take about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute or until it becomes aromatic.

    Add Vegetables: Introduce the diced carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini to the pot. Sauté the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly while stirring occasionally.

      Incorporate Lentils and Spices: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, turmeric, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf into the pot. Stir everything together, making sure the lentils and vegetables are well coated with the spices.

        Pour in Broth: Carefully add the vegetable broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

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

            Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. For an extra burst of freshness, consider stirring in the lemon juice right before serving.

              Serve: Ladle the hearty soup into bowls, topping each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread for dipping.

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

                  - Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, consider topping the soup with a swirl of olive oil and a sprinkle of additional smoked paprika before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but adds an extra layer of flavor. Enjoy!