Healthy green lentil soup

As these cool winter nights continue, thinking about a new warm yet healthy dinner meal can be tiresome. This lentil soup is the best answer if you are stuck for ideas. Lentils are considered a superfood because of how good they are for you. They lower your cholesterol, help with heart and digestive health and are a great source of protein.

Despite the fact that lentils are sometimes served up in boring and bland meals, this recipe is anything but. It has a deliciously perfect mixture of spices and is topped off with a hint of lemon that really gives it that final kick. Dig in to this healthy meal for your next dinner!

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 large carrot, chopped
• 2 celery ribs, chopped
• 2 cups (400g) dried lentils, green (or brown), rinsed and drained
• 400g crushed tomato
• 6 cups (1.5 litres) vegetable or chicken stock
• 1/2 teaspoon each cumin and coriander powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoon paprika powder
• 2 dried bay leaves
• 1 lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Warm bread, to serve

Method

1. Heat oil in large saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and onion. Cook and stir for 2 minutes until slightly coloured. Add celery and carrot. Cook for 7-10 minutes. Stir constantly until softened. Add lentils, tomato, stock, cumin, coriander, paprika and bay leaves. Stir well to combine.
2. Increase heat to bring mixture to a simmer. Scrape film from top and discard. Cover and reduce heat to medium low. Leave to simmer for 35-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Remove from heat. Transfer to serving bowls. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add squeeze of lemon juice to each. Garnish with parsley and crusty bread to serve.