Easy, Nutritious Lentil & Vegetable Soup Recipe

As winter feels like it's in full force, there's nothing like a hearty bowl of soup to warm you up. I've got you covered with this simple and nourishing soup recipe that's jam packed full of healthy veggies and includes lentils for a protein hit. It's a perfect lunchtime meal to ensure you're working towards your daily vegetable intake AND it's really quick and easy to make. You can batch cook it for the week ahead too!

1. Lentil and Vegetable Soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 can (390g) green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (and left for 10 minutes)
• 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups chopped kale or spinach
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pan, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic in coconut until softened.
2. Add the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 10 minutes or until everything is tender.
4. Stir in the chopped kale or spinach and cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
5. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Health Benefits:

1. High in Protein: Lentils are an excellent plant-based protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle health and overall bodily functions.
2. Rich in Fibre: Lentils and vegetables contribute to the soup's fibre content, promoting digestive health, and helping maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
3. Abundance of Vegetables: Carrots, celery, tomatoes, and kale provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting immune function and overall well-being.
4. Anti-Inflammatory Spices: Cumin and smoked paprika not only add flavor but also bring anti-inflammatory properties to the soup.
5. Low in Calories, High in Nutrients: This soup is nutrient-dense and relatively low in calories, making it a great option for those aiming to manage weight while ensuring nutrient intake.
6. Hydration and Detoxification: The high water content in the soup, combined with the fibre, supports hydration and aids in the body's natural detoxification processes.

Enjoy!