Welcome to a culinary journey that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds! If you're searching for a comforting dish that embodies the essence of Italian cuisine, look no further than this delightful lentil soup, or "zuppa di lenticchia." With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this hearty soup is not just a meal—it's a hug in a bowl! Perfect for chilly evenings or a nourishing lunch, this recipe is simple yet satisfying. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Dive in to discover how to create this Italian classic that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 1 cup of lentils, 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, 2 diced celery stalks, 4 cups of vegetable broth, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon of thyme, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Rinse the lentils under cold water in a fine mesh strainer to remove any debris or dirt. Set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Continue to sauté the vegetables for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and thyme, and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Once the lentils are cooked, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as desired. If the soup is too thick, you can add a little more vegetable broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, or transfer a cup or two to a regular blender and blend until smooth, then return it to the pot.
- Serve the lentil soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty and nutritious zuppa di lenticchia!
Tips
- Choose the Right Lentils: For this recipe, brown or green lentils work best as they hold their shape during cooking. Avoid red lentils if you prefer a chunkier texture, as they tend to break down more.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Always rinse your lentils under cold water before cooking to remove any dirt or debris. This step ensures a cleaner flavor in your soup.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery first enhances the flavor base of your soup, making it more aromatic and delicious.
- Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, simply let it simmer longer without the lid. For a thinner consistency, add more vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired texture.
- Blend for Creaminess: For a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup directly in the pot. This adds a lovely texture while still keeping some lentils whole for that hearty feel.
- Season to Taste: Don’t forget to taste your soup before serving! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your palate, and feel free to add a splash of lemon juice for a bright finish.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme just before serving adds a burst of color and freshness that elevates the dish.
- Store and Reheat: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks ahead!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 230kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 2g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
