A Perfect Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup Recipe

Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup A hearty, flavorful soup perfect for cozy evenings! Ingredients (Serves 4-6) • 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed • 1 tbsp olive oil • 1 medium onion, finely chopped • 2 carrots, diced • 2 celery stalks, diced • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1 cup (200g) dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed • 1 can (14 oz/400g) diced tomatoes • 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or vegetable broth • 1 cup water (optional, for desired consistency) • 1 tsp dried oregano • 1 tsp dried thyme • 1 bay leaf • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste • 2 cups fresh spinach or kale (optional), roughly chopped • Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving Instructions 1. Brown the Sausage: • Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. • Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. 2. Sauté the Vegetables: • In the same pot, add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened. • Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant. 3. Build the Soup Base: • Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, water (if using), oregano, thyme, and bay leaf. 4. Simmer: • Return the browned sausage to the pot. 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. 5. Add Greens (Optional): • Stir in the spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking, allowing it to wilt. 6. Season and Serve: • Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. • Ladle the soup into bowls and top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serving Suggestion: Serve with crusty bread or a side of garlic toast for a complete meal. This soup also tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together! Enjoy your Italian sausage and lentil soup—a comforting classic!