Black Lentil Veggie Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground pepper
• 3 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup black lentils, rinsed
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, celery, carrots, thyme, smoked paprika, cumin, salt and pepper, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the vegetable broth, black lentils, and diced tomatoes, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the spinach and parsley, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings, if necessary.
5. Serve warm.

Interesting Facts

• Black lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein.
• This soup can be served as a main course or as a side dish.
• This soup is also a great source of fiber and nutrients.