Red Lentil Soup

Ingredients:

• Extra virgin olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 3 tsp dry oregano

• 1 ½ tsp cumin

• 1 tsp rosemary

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes

• 2 dry bay leaves

• 1 cup crushed tomatoes (from a can)

• 7 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

• 2 cups red lentils, rinsed and drained

• Kosher salt

• Zest of 1 lemon

• Juice of 2 lemons

• Fresh parsley for garnish

• Crumbled feta cheese to serve, optional
  

Instructions:

1. Heat 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil until shimmering but not smoking. Add onions, carrots, and garlic. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring regularly. Add spices and bay leaves. Cook for a few seconds till fragrant. Keep stirring so the spices don't burn.

2. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, and lentils. Sprinkle with kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until lentils are fully cooked.

3. Remove from heat. If you have the time, let the soup cool a bit before using a blender to puree. Pulse a few times till you reach the creamy consistency you are looking for.

4. Return soup to heat, and stir to warm through. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.

5. Transfer soup to serving bowls and top with extra virgin olive oil. If you like, top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of feta cheese. Serve with your favorite crusty bread!