Are you craving a hearty, flavorful soup that's both satisfying and good for you? Look no further! This recipe recreates the beloved Carrabba's lentil soup, bringing that restaurant-quality taste right into your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this delicious and healthy meal!
Ingredients: A Pantry Staple Transformation
This lentil soup recipe uses simple, accessible ingredients, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights. You likely already have many of them in your pantry!
- 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 little heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: Simple Steps to Soup Success
Follow these easy steps and you'll be enjoying a bowl of delicious lentil soup in no time!
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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.
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Add 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.
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Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your homemade Carrabba's-inspired lentil soup!
Cooking Tips for the Best Lentil Soup
- For a smoother soup: Use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup after the lentils are cooked. This will create a creamier texture without making it completely pureed.
- Don't overcook the lentils: Overcooked lentils can become mushy. Check for tenderness around the 30-minute mark.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness. A dash of smoked paprika adds a smoky depth of flavor.
Variations: Make it Your Own!
- Italian Sausage Lentil Soup: Brown 1 pound of Italian sausage before adding the vegetables for a heartier soup.
- Lemon Lentil Soup: Add the juice and zest of 1 lemon at the end of cooking for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Curried Lentil Soup: Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of curry powder along with the other spices for a flavorful Indian-inspired soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 15-20g
This easy lentil soup recipe is a perfect example of healthy eating without sacrificing deliciousness. It's a quick dinner idea, a great addition to your weekly meal prep, and a fantastic example of the best recipes you can make at home. Enjoy!