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lentil soup in a white bowl on a wooden cutting board with a spoon lying next to the bowl

One Pot Italian Lentil Soup

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes

Equipment

  • large pot or dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • cutting board
  • sharp knife
  • measuring spoons
  • measuring cups

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb Italian sausage
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 2 carrots chopped
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced or pressed
  • 6 cups broth vegetable broth, chicken broth, or beef broth
  • 1 cup lentils green lentils, red lentils, or brown lentils
  • 8 oz Rotel diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 8 oz tomato sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp curry powder
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • Freshly grated parmesan cheese for serving
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it browns.
  • Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir and cook for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  • Pour in the broth of your choice and add the rinsed lentils. Stir to combine.
  • Add the Rotel, tomato sauce, salt, cumin, bay leaf, thyme, curry powder, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well.
  • Pour in the apple cider vinegar and stir to mix.
  • Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Check the lentils for doneness. If needed, simmer for another 5-10 minutes until tender.
  • Remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

Storage Tips:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave.
Freeze for up to 3 months for an easy meal prep option.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!