In the realm of comforting and nourishing meals, few dishes rival the hearty goodness of Lentil Soup with Spinach. This recipe not only offers a delightful blend of flavors but also boasts a plethora of health benefits. Let’s dive into why this dish deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire.
Benefits of Lentil Soup with Spinach:
- Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrients, packed with fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Paired with fresh spinach, this soup provides a wholesome dose of essential nutrients that support overall health and well-being.
- Heart-Healthy: Lentils are renowned for their heart-healthy properties, thanks to their high fiber and low-fat content. Consuming lentils regularly may help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease, making this soup an excellent choice for cardiovascular health.
- Blood Sugar Regulation: Lentils have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a gradual rise in blood sugar levels. Combined with spinach, which is rich in antioxidants, this soup can aid in blood sugar regulation and provide sustained energy levels throughout the day.
- Immune Support: The combination of lentils and spinach provides a wealth of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, iron, and folate, which are essential for a robust immune system. Enjoying this soup regularly may help strengthen your body’s natural defenses against infections and illnesses.
Hearty Lentil Soup with Spinach
Dive into a bowl of nourishing Lentil Soup with Spinach, brimming with wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors.
- Total Time: 35 Minutes
- Yield: Makes about 6 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups fresh spinach leaves
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Add the spinach leaves and lemon juice to the pot, and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Feel free to customize the soup with your favorite herbs and spices.
- For added protein, you can stir in cooked chicken or tofu.
- This soup freezes well, so you can make a big batch and store leftovers for later.
- Prep Time: 10 Minutes
- Cook Time: 25 Minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 0
In conclusion, Lentil Soup with Spinach isn’t just a delicious and comforting meal; it’s also a nutritional powerhouse that offers numerous health benefits. From supporting heart health and immune function to regulating blood sugar levels, this soup has it all. By incorporating this wholesome dish into your diet, you’re not only treating your taste buds but also nourishing your body from the inside out. So, whip up a batch of this flavorful soup and savor every spoonful as you embark on a journey to better health and well-being.
