Lentil Soup with Spinach

Hearty and Healthy: Wholesome Lentil Soup with Spinach

There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of soup, especially when it’s both delicious and nutritious. Lentil soup with spinach is a classic that never disappoints, offering a perfect blend of flavors, textures, and health benefits. Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this soup is not only satisfying but also incredibly good for you.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: freshly squeezed lemon juice for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lentils: Start by rinsing the lentils under cold water until the water runs clear. Set them aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, then add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

3. Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin, smoked paprika, and turmeric, allowing the spices to toast for about a minute to release their flavors.

4. Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

5. Incorporate Lentils and Spinach: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot and continue simmering for an additional 15-20 minutes or until the lentils are cooked through. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted.

6. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Ladle the soup into bowls and if desired, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice on top for an extra burst of flavor.

7. Enjoy: Serve this wholesome lentil soup with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Why This Soup Is A Nutritional Powerhouse:

– Lentils: High in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like folate and iron, lentils are a fantastic addition to any diet, offering sustained energy and promoting digestive health.

– Spinach: Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, spinach boosts the soup’s nutritional content while adding a vibrant green color.

– Vegetables and Spices: Carrots, celery, onions, and garlic provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, while the spices not only enhance flavor but also offer anti-inflammatory properties.

This lentil soup with spinach is a versatile and nourishing dish suitable for vegetarians and omnivores alike. It’s perfect for a cozy night in, a quick and easy weeknight dinner, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. Plus, it freezes well, so you can always have a comforting bowl on hand whenever you need it. Give it a try and savor the warmth and wholesomeness in every spoonful!