Winter's chill calls for something warm, comforting, and nourishing. Forget bland, boring soups! This recipe delivers a delicious, healthy, and surprisingly easy winter warmer that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal. Get ready to savor every spoonful of this hearty and flavorful soup, packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with winter warmth. It's one of the best recipes for chilly evenings – guaranteed!
Ingredients:
This easy recipe requires readily available ingredients, making it perfect for even the busiest weeknights.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chopped kale or spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
This delicious soup comes together quickly and easily. Follow these simple steps for a perfect result.
-
Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
-
Add the lentils and broth: Add the lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
-
Stir in the tomatoes and greens: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and kale or spinach. Simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the greens are wilted.
-
Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly firm lentils.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning to your preference. You might want to add more herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week. This makes it a great option for meal prepping healthy meals.
Variations:
This basic recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to create your own unique version.
- Add protein: Include cooked sausage, chicken, or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
- Boost the vegetables: Add other winter vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or parsnips.
- Creamy soup: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or coconut milk before serving for a creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This hearty soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients you use. However, a typical serving provides approximately:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 10-15g
This healthy soup recipe offers a quick and easy way to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, and a great addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!