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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can compete with a warm bowl of soup. Particularly as the weather cools, the desire for nourishing meals that provide both warmth and health becomes ever more pronounced. This Cozy Comfort Lentil & Veggie Delight not only satisfies the palate but also nourishes the body, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead. Packed with wholesome ingredients, this lentil soup is a celebration of vegetables and legumes, offering a delightful blend of flavors and textures. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation steps, and nutritional benefits of this comforting dish.

Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Warm up your evenings with Cozy Comfort Lentil & Veggie Delight, a nourishing soup perfect for chilly weather. This recipe combines hearty lentils with a colorful array of fresh vegetables, spices, and flavors that create a satisfying meal for the whole family. Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it's not just delicious but promotes health too. Ideal for cozy dinners or meal prepping, this delightful dish is a hearty embrace in a bowl that everyone will love.
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Ingredients
  

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

2 medium potatoes, diced (Yukon Gold or red preferred)

1 zucchini, diced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

6 cups vegetable broth

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

2 cups fresh spinach or kale

Juice of 1 lemon

Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Prepare the Lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water and set them aside.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

      Add Vegetables: Add the diced carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

        Incorporate Potatoes & Zucchini: Stir in the diced potatoes and zucchini. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, allowing the veggies to mingle.

          Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, ground cumin, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

            Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils and vegetables are tender.

              Stir in Greens: Once the soup is cooked, add the fresh spinach or kale. Stir and let it wilt for about 2-3 minutes.

                Finish with Lemon: Remove the pot from heat and add the juice of one lemon for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.

                  Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy it warm with crusty bread or a side salad!

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 45 minutes | Serves 6-8