Are you craving a delicious, comforting bowl of soup that's both healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This recipe recreates the beloved Carrabba's Italian Grill lentil soup, bringing that restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a cozy weekend lunch. This hearty and flavorful lentil soup is a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste. Prepare for a culinary journey that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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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 minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step builds the flavor foundation of your delicious dish.
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Add the lentils and broth: Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Homemade cooking at its finest!
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Season and serve: Once the lentils are cooked through, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency. Garnish with fresh parsley (if using) and serve hot with crusty bread for dipping. This easy recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas.
Cooking Tips for the Best Lentil Soup:
- Rinse your lentils: This helps remove any debris and prevents the soup from becoming too cloudy.
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Start checking for tenderness around the 30-minute mark.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your taste.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Add sausage: Brown some Italian sausage before adding the vegetables for a heartier soup.
- Include spinach: Stir in a handful of fresh spinach during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or a splash of heavy cream before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 15-20g
This Carrabba's lentil soup recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Its ease of preparation, combined with its rich flavor and nutritional benefits, makes it a true winner. Enjoy this healthy and delicious meal!