What's For Dinner: A Gentle Bowl of Lentil and Vegetable Soup

December can feel like a whirlwind, can't it? The cheerful chaos, the endless to-do lists, the beautiful lights that beckon us out into the crisp air. Sometimes, amidst all the bustling and the doing, my spirit yearns for a quiet corner, a warm blanket, and a meal that wraps around me like a hug. It's in these moments I find myself most grateful for the simple blessings – the warmth of a home, the comfort of good nourishment, and the precious gift of stillness. This hearty lentil and vegetable soup is more than just dinner; it’s an invitation to pause, to breathe, and to simply *be*. There’s something profoundly comforting about a pot of soup simmering gently on the stove, filling the kitchen with promises of warmth. It asks nothing of you but patience, and in return, it offers deep, satisfying sustenance. This isn't about rushing; it’s about allowing good things to come together, slowly, thoughtfully. It’s a gentle reminder that even in the busiest season, there’s always room for a moment of quiet grace.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if preferred)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
• 4 cups fresh spinach or chopped kale
• Optional: A splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice for brightness

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 8-10 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the fresh spinach or kale until it wilts, which should only take a few minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If desired, stir in a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice for a touch of brightness.
7. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.

And there you have it – a bowl of warmth, a testament to the joy found in simple ingredients coming together. As the steam rises, carrying the fragrant promise of comfort, I often find myself reflecting on the gifts of the season. Not just the physical gifts, but the quiet moments of connection, the shared laughter, the silent prayers of gratitude. This soup, for me, is a humble vessel for those reflections, offering warmth not just to the body, but to the soul. In this season of giving and receiving, what simple, quiet comforts are you most grateful for? I'd genuinely love to know.

---

Looking for the perfect gift (or a treat for yourself)?

Check out our unique table runners, oven mitts, and other home decor in the ArtInScienceDesigns Etsy shop. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in!

AND... Follow Me on CF

#recipes #fordinner #simple #lifestyle #etsy #7propertiesga #artinsciencedesigns #homedecor #kitchendecor #thanksgiving