Hearty Lentil and Italian Sausage Soup: A Cozy and Nutritious Delight

This flavorful and nourishing lentil and Italian sausage soup is perfect for cold weather or anytime you crave a comforting yet healthy meal. Packed with protein-rich lentils, savory Italian sausage, and a variety of aromatic vegetables, this soup is both satisfying and delicious. Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach leaves
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
• Crusty bread, for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon as it cooks. Continue until the sausage is no longer pink and has started to brown, about 7-8 minutes. Remove the cooked sausage from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes (with their juice), chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried basil. Bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. Remove and discard the bay leaves. Stir the cooked sausage back into the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Add the baby spinach leaves and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
8. Serve the soup hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese. Accompany with a slice of crusty bread, if desired.

Enjoy this hearty and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!