Italian Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion
• 2 medium carrot
• 2 large celery
• 3 pieces garlic
• 1.5 cups brown lentils
• 14.5 ounces tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 2 leaves bay leaves
• 2 cups kale
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. 1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. 2Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. 3Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 2 minutes.
4. 4Add dried lentils, diced tomatoes with their juice, and vegetable broth. Stir in bay leaves.
5. 5Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
6. 6Remove bay leaves. Add chopped kale to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the kale to wilt.
7. 7Stir in lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
8. 8Serve hot, drizzling extra virgin olive oil on top if desired.
9. 9For leftovers, allow the soup to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.
10. 10Reheat gently, adding a little water if the soup has thickened too much upon standing.
11. 11Enjoy the rich flavors and health benefits of this traditional Mediterranean soup with a modern, nutritious twist.