Hearty Rustic Sausage and Lentil Soup
A comforting and hearty soup that combines Italian sausage, lentils, and fresh garden vegetables, perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 handful fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies soften. Then, toss in the garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add the Italian sausage to the pot. Break it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until it’s browned and crumbly.
- Stir in the lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and the bay leaf. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Allow it to gently simmer for about 30-35 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
- Before serving, add the fresh spinach or kale. Stir it in, and let it wilt. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and serve. Optionally top with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Prep ahead by chopping the vegetables and storing them in the fridge. This soup reheats beautifully and keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Substitute sausage for turkey or omit meat for a vegetarian version.