Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further than this delicious Carrabba's-inspired Spicy Sausage Lentil Soup! This recipe captures the essence of that beloved restaurant's warmth and spice, all while being completely homemade. It's a perfect example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste, making it an ideal addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas. Get ready to impress yourself and your family with this simple yet satisfying dish!
Ingredients:
This recipe easily serves 4-6 people, perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot, your preference!), casings removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
This easy recipe breaks down into simple steps, perfect for beginner cooks!
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer: Return the sausage to the pot. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Step 4: Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture.
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder soup, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes. For extra heat, add more!
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Make it a meal: Serve with crusty bread for dipping for a truly satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian version. You can add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Creamy lentil soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
- Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright and zesty flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This Carrabba's inspired Spicy Sausage Lentil Soup recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes you can create at home with ease. It's a fantastic way to enjoy a warm and comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe provides healthy and satisfying food recipes that everyone will enjoy, making it a perfect addition to your collection of best recipes. Enjoy!