Mediterranean Lentil Soup with Lemon

Ingredients

• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes, with juices
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 whole lemon, juiced
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Method

1. 01
   In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. 02
   Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
3. 03
   Stir in the ground cumin, ground coriander, and smoked paprika, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. 04
   Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes with their juices to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. 05
   Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
6. 06
   Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. 07
   Remove the pot from heat and stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley.
8. 08
   Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.