"Mainely Dish" Recipe Video: Hearty Lentil Soup

lentils

🥗Healthier: split peas

💰Cheaper: dried beans

Split peas are often lower in cost and provide similar nutrition.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon

Homemade broth can be healthier and more flavorful.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers health benefits while canola is budget-friendly.

spinach

🥗Healthier: kale

💰Cheaper: cabbage

Kale is nutrient-rich and cabbage is often cheaper.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, bay leaves, thyme, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until lentils are tender.

Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

Remove bay leaves before serving.

Adjust seasoning with salt, black pepper, and lemon juice to taste.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level: