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Before diving into the recipe, it's essential to appreciate the powerhouse ingredients that make this soup not just delicious but also a nourishing choice. Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, rich in fiber, and low in fat. They help stabilize blood sugar levels, promote digestive health, and are packed with essential nutrients like iron, folate, and potassium. This makes them an excellent staple for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to incorporate more wholesome foods into their diet.

Lentil Soup with Lemon and Spinach

Warm up with a bowl of Zesty Lemon Spinach Lentil Soup! This nutritious dish combines hearty lentils, vibrant spinach, and a zesty kick from fresh lemon juice, making it perfect for cozy evenings or a satisfying lunch. Packed with protein and fiber, it's ideal for vegetarians and anyone seeking a healthy meal. The aromatic spices enhance the flavor, creating a delicious harmony that will leave you feeling revitalized. Perfect for meal prep, this soup is as enjoyable to make as it is to eat.
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Ingredients
  

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained

6 cups vegetable broth (or water)

1 bay leaf

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tablespoons)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: Fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Instructions
 

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic, carrots, and celery and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.

    Add Spices: Stir in the ground cumin and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until fragrant.

      Incorporate Lentils: Add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by the vegetable broth (or water). Toss in the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

        Simmer the Soup: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

          Add Spinach and Lemon: Remove the bay leaf and stir in the chopped spinach. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until the spinach is wilted. Squeeze in the lemon juice and season with salt and black pepper to taste.

            Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired. Enjoy your zesty lentil soup warm!

              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings