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Spinach Lentil Soup for Cold Winter Nights

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Spinach Lentil Soup for Cold Winter Nights

When the cold winds howl and frost settles on your windows, there's nothing more magical than a bowl of hearty, nutrient-packed soup that promises to warm you from the inside out. This Spinach Lentil Soup isn't just another recipe—it's a culinary hug that combines the earthy richness of lentils with the vibrant freshness of spinach, creating a meal that's both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple to prepare. Get ready to transform your winter evenings with this soul-warming dish that will have your family begging for seconds!

Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings

Ingredients

  1. 1 cup lentils
  2. 4 cups vegetable broth
  3. 2 cups fresh spinach
  4. 1 onion, diced
  5. 2 carrots, diced
  6. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  7. 1 teaspoon cumin
  8. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold running water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large soup pot, heat a small amount of olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and carrots, sautéing until the onions become translucent and slightly softened, approximately 4-5 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cumin to the pot, stirring continuously for 30-45 seconds to release their aromatic flavors without burning.
  4. Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and add the rinsed lentils. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
  5. Simmer the soup for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender but not mushy. The lentils should maintain a slight bite.
  6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
  7. In the final 2-3 minutes of cooking, add fresh spinach leaves and stir until they wilt and become vibrant green.
  8. Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
  9. Serve hot in deep bowls, optionally garnishing with a drizzle of olive oil or fresh herbs like parsley.

Tips

  1. Lentil Selection Matters: Use green or brown lentils for this recipe, as they hold their shape better during cooking and provide a nice texture.
  2. Broth Boost: For extra flavor, consider using homemade vegetable broth or adding a splash of white wine when sautéing vegetables.
  3. Spinach Timing: Add spinach at the very end to preserve its bright green color and nutritional value. Overcooking will make it lose its vibrant appearance.
  4. Texture Control: If you prefer a creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially blend the soup, leaving some lentils whole for texture.
  5. Make-Ahead Magic: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance. The flavors will continue to develop overnight.
  6. Garnish Game: Elevate your soup with toppings like a dollop of Greek yogurt, crumbled feta, toasted pumpkin seeds, or a drizzle of good quality olive oil.
  7. Storage Tip: This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, making it a perfect meal prep option for busy winter weeks.

Nutrition Facts

Calories: 250kcal

Carbohydrates: 40g

Protein: 15g

Fat: 3g

Saturated Fat: g

Cholesterol: 0mg

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