Teresa's Recipes
Zuppa Di Lenticchie
Zuppa di Lenticchie is a delightful Italian lentil soup that encapsulates the heart and soul of traditional Italian cooking. This nourishing and hearty dish features tender lentils simmered with a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables, aromatic herbs, and spices, resulting in a warm and comforting experience perfect for chilly evenings. Originating from humble Italian households, this rustic soup reflects the simplicity of peasant cuisine, where every ingredient is cherished. Whether enjoyed as a starter or a main course, Zuppa di Lenticchie is a timeless classic that nourishes both body and spirit.
Ingredients
- 1 cup, rinsed and drained Lentils
- 2 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil
- 1 medium, chopped Onion
- 2, diced Carrots
- 2 stalks, diced Celery
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 2 tablespoons Tomato paste
- 4 cups Vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 1 Bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 6g
- Carbs: 36g
- Protein: 12g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant and the paste has darkened slightly.
- Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the soup has thickened.
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf from the soup and discard.
- Serve the Zuppa di Lenticchie hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Tips
- For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes or diced tomatoes along with the lentils.
- You can enhance the flavor by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.
- For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sautéed vegetables.