Easy Green Lentil Soup

There’s nothing like a bowl of homemade soup for instant comfort. Use this Easy Green Lentil Soup recipe for a light dinner or quick lunch. It is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s easy to make, tastes delicious and is low in fat. What’s more, it’s full of natural protein. And guess what? Lentils are packed with cholesterol-lowering fibre. 

I like to use the small dark green lentils (a.k.a. French lentils) because they’re sturdy and cook quickly. All lentil varieties are great and very nutritious, try different types (red, green, etc.) and find what you like best.

Lentils are especially high in B vitamins and minerals like iron, phosphorus, potassium and zinc. Many nutritionists consider lentils one of the healthiest things you can eat, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS (SERVES 4)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup finely chopped onion
• ¼ cup finely chopped carrot
• ¼ cup finely chopped celery
• 1 teaspoons salt
• 225gr green lentils, picked and rinsed
• ½ cup peeled and chopped tomatoes
• 3 chicken cubes melt in 4 cups of water
• ¼ teaspoon ground parsley
• ¼ teaspoon ground toasted cumin
• Optional – spoonful of fat free cottage cheese

METHOD

1. Put the olive oil in a large saucepan and place over a medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, celery and salt. Sauté for 6 to 7 minutes.
2. Add the lentils, tomatoes, broth, parsley and cumin; stir to combine. Increase the heat to high and bring mixture just to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover and cook at a low simmer until the lentils are tender, about 40 minutes.
3. Using a stick blender, puree the soup to your desired consistency. Serve with cottage cheese and sprinkle with dried parsley if desired.

NUTRITION

One serving equals: 240 calories, 2g fat, 35g carbohydrate, 18g fibre, and 16g protein.