ww lentil soup

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt, to taste
• 2 cups chopped spinach or kale
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Lentils:
   • Pick through the lentils to remove any debris or stones. Rinse them under cold water and drain.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
   • In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the Aromatics:
   • Add the minced garlic, cumin, coriander, smoked paprika (if using), turmeric (if using), and black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Combine Tomatoes and Lentils:
   • Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the drained lentils to the pot. Stir everything together.
5. Add Broth and Simmer:
   • Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season and Add Greens:
   • Taste the soup and add salt as needed. Stir in the chopped spinach or kale and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the greens are wilted.
7. Finish with Lemon Juice:
   • Remove the bay leaves and stir in the lemon juice. Taste again and adjust seasoning if necessary.
8. Serve:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Optional Additions:

• You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or sweet potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
• If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped chili peppers.

Enjoy your WW lentil soup!