Hearty Onion and Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Onions (2 large, diced)
• Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
• Carrots (2 medium, diced)
• Celery (2 stalks, diced)
• Green lentils (1 cup, rinsed)
• Vegetable broth (6 cups)
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are soft and golden, about 8-10 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery, cooking for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
4. Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree the soup to your desired consistency, or leave it chunky for a heartier feel.
7. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot.