Are you looking for delicious and healthy soup recipes that align with the Sacred Heart Diet principles? Look no further! This recipe offers a flavorful and nutritious soup perfect for a light yet satisfying meal. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients, easy to make, and a fantastic addition to your healthy eating plan. This recipe is a perfect example of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, making homemade cooking simple and enjoyable.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4 and emphasizes fresh, simple ingredients.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup green lentils, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
This recipe is incredibly straightforward, even for beginners in 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 garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the remaining ingredients: Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, lentils, oregano, and basil. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Boost the protein: Include a cup of cooked chicken or chickpeas for extra protein.
- Make it creamy: Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender for a creamier texture. Leave some unblended for a heartier consistency.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
- Meal prepping made easy: This soup is excellent for meal prepping. Make a large batch and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for longer storage.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: 15-20g
- Fiber: 15-20g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
Why this recipe is perfect for the Sacred Heart Diet:
This soup is a fantastic example of delicious dishes that are also healthy. It's packed with fiber-rich lentils and vegetables, providing essential nutrients while being low in saturated fat and sodium. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that aligns perfectly with the principles of a heart-healthy diet. This easy recipe showcases how homemade cooking can be both quick and beneficial. It is a wonderful addition to your best recipes collection for its ease and health benefits. Enjoy this hearty and healthy soup as part of your balanced and flavorful meal plan.