Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary experience! This Smoky Lentil Florentine Soup is not just another recipe—it's a flavor explosion that combines the rustic charm of Italian cuisine with the hearty nutrition of plant-based ingredients. Imagine a soup so rich, so smoky, and so satisfying that it will have your family and friends begging for seconds before they've finished their first bite.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cups spinach
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing 1 cup of lentils under cold water to remove any impurities. Set aside to drain.
- In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 1 chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add 2 diced carrots to the pot and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots start to soften.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, allowing the spices to toast for about 1 minute, which will enhance their flavor.
- Next, add the rinsed lentils to the pot, followed by 4 cups of vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- Once the lentils are cooked, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach and cook for an additional 5 minutes, just until the spinach wilts.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as needed.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the soup cool slightly before serving. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve the Smoky Lentil Florentine Soup hot, garnished with a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Rinse Your Lentils Thoroughly: Always rinse lentils before cooking to remove any dust or debris and prevent potential digestive issues.
- Toast Your Spices: When adding smoked paprika, let it toast for a full minute to release its deep, smoky flavor profile.
- Don't Overcook the Spinach: Add spinach at the end and cook just until wilted to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value.
- Choose High-Quality Broth: The vegetable broth is a key flavor component, so opt for a rich, high-quality brand or consider making your own.
- Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld and intensify.
- Customize Your Garnish: Experiment with toppings like a drizzle of good olive oil, fresh herbs, or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra depth.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
