Nutritious Beef And Kale Recipe For Dinner

Lentil soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that serves as a perfect companion on chilly days. This Italian vegetable lentil soup is not only packed with flavor but also boasts a variety of wholesome ingredients that contribute to its rich texture and taste. Below you will find everything you need to create this delightful soup, including the necessary ingredients and simple instructions to follow.

Lentil Soup (Italian Vegetable)

This comforting Italian vegetable lentil soup is a fantastic option for both a family meal and an elegant dinner. The combination of lentils and vegetables offers a wonderful depth of flavor that can warm the soul. Below is the recipe, along with tips for preparation.

Lentil Soup ### Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
2 cups chopped kale or spinach
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables have softened.
Add minced garlic, dried oregano, thyme, cumin, and red pepper flakes. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes, lentils, and vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the chopped kale or spinach and season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Allow the greens to wilt, approximately 5 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious and wholesome Italian lentil soup!

This lentil soup is not only easy to make but it reaps the benefits of healthy ingredients, making it a wonderful addition to any meal plan. Perfect for meal prepping, this soup can be stored in the refrigerator for several days, allowing you to enjoy its flavors even longer.