Does the cold, winter weather make you want to bundle up with a warm bowl of soup? Consider this rich and hearty recipe for French Lentil Soup.

Lentils are often overlooked in American cuisine, but they are appreciated all over the world and are a powerhouse of nutrition. High in protein and low in fat, they’ll keep you energized without compromising your waistline. Lentils are low on the glycemic scale, which means your blood sugar won’t suffer a hunger-inducing spike and your cravings will remain under control. They are also full of dietary fiber, which helps prevent heart disease, and they have plenty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant power. (Plus, they’re delicious!)

French Lentil Soup
(Serves 4)

1 T. evoo
1 yellow onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
3 stalks celery, chopped
1/4 t. coriander
1/4 t. cumin
1 can peeled and diced tomatoes
1 qt. low-sodium vegetable broth
1/2 lb. French green lentils, rinsed
1 t. sea salt
Fresh ground pepper
1 T. lemon juice
Parsley, chopped, for garnish
Sour cream, garnish

Heat a large saucepan over a medium-hi flame. When hot, add the oil followed by the onion, carrot, and celery.
Sauté the vegetables until the onions are translucent, about 5 – 7 minutes.
Add the coriander, cumin, tomatoes, and broth.
Bring to a boil and add lentils.
Cover and simmer 35 – 45 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
When the lentils are done, mix in the salt, pepper, and lemon juice and puree with a stick blender to your desired consistency.
Garnish with parsley and a dollop of sour cream. Voila!

This soup is a meal in itself, but feel free to add a slice of bread and butter.

*Quick tip: this soup is even better the next day, so make plenty for leftovers!

More Recipes:
Yogurt with Fresh Fruit and Bran
Mediterranean Salmon

Technorati Tags: Glam Media, Glam, GlamSpirit, Wellness, Health, GlamNetwork, Soup, Lentils, Healthy Recipe, Recipe, Vegetarian

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