Healthy Red Lentil Soup Recipe

The Perfect Cold Weather Comfort Food

Nothing says comfort food like a hearty bowl of soup. Whether it's a cold winter's day or you're under the weather, a warm bowl of soup can be just what you need to make you feel better. Red lentil soup is an incredibly delicious and healthy way to get your fix and warm up your soul. It's simple to make and contains several ingredients that provide a variety of vitamins and minerals to keep you healthy and strong.

Ingredients

This recipe makes 4-6 servings of soup. Here's what you'll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
2 cups dried red lentils
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon dried thyme
4 cups vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the onion, garlic, carrots and celery and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent.

Add the lentils, cumin, turmeric, thyme and vegetable broth and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft and tender.

Once the lentils are cooked, add the bay leaf and stir to combine. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serving Suggestions

Red lentil soup is hearty and comforting on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. If you want to add some extra protein, you can top it off with a few slices of cooked bacon or a dollop of plain Greek yogurt. You can also add a few tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for extra flavor and color.

Health Benefits

Red lentils are packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that can help support a healthy lifestyle. They are high in fiber and protein, making them an excellent choice for vegetarians and vegans. They are also a great source of iron, folate and magnesium, which can help support a healthy immune system. Red lentils are also low in calories and fat, making them a great choice for those looking to lose weight.

Conclusion

Red lentil soup is the perfect comfort food to warm up your soul. It's full of healthy ingredients that provide a variety of vitamins and minerals to keep you healthy and strong. This recipe is simple to make and can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of sides. So next time you're in the mood for something comforting and nutritious, give this red lentil soup recipe a try!