Italian Lentil Soup
Italian Lentil Soup is rich, savory, and full of veggies. A warm, wholesome dish inspired by classic Italian comfort food.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion diced
- 2 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 ½ cups dried brown or green lentils rinsed
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar optional
- Fresh parsley or spinach for garnish optional
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic, oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. Cook for another minute.
- Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 35–40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
- Remove bay leaf. Stir in balsamic vinegar if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or a handful of spinach, and serve warm.