Are you craving a hearty, flavorful soup that's both comforting and surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This lentil soup recipe takes inspiration from the beloved Carrabba's Italian Grill, offering a delicious and healthy meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly simple, even for beginners, and delivers restaurant-quality taste right to your kitchen table. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this amazing homemade cooking creation!
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it perfect for a spontaneous healthy meal.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium 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
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Let's get cooking! This recipe is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable, even for those new to the kitchen.
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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 foundation of the soup's rich flavor.
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Add the Lentils and Broth: Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (undrained), oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper to your liking.
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Blend (Optional): For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially or fully puree the soup. This step is entirely optional; some prefer a chunkier texture, while others enjoy a creamier consistency.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the lentils are cooked, taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. This delicious and healthy dish is perfect served with crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for Soup Perfection
- 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. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more or less of any spice to suit your preferences.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! It's perfect for meal prepping.
Delicious Variations: Spice Things Up!
- Add protein: Include cooked sausage, chicken, or chickpeas for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Add greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Lemon zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This recipe provides a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the ingredients used. However, a typical serving will contain roughly:
- Calories: 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 15-20g
This delicious and easy lentil soup recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Its versatility, healthy ingredients, and satisfying flavor make it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!