- **2 tbsp olive oil** (for sautéing vegetables and sausage)
- **Salt and black pepper** (to taste, for seasoning)
- **Fresh parsley** (chopped, for garnish and freshness)
- **Optional: 1 cup spinach or kale** (for added greens and nutrients)
This **easy lentil and sausage soup recipe** is perfect for a **comforting, healthy meal** that’s packed with **protein, fiber, and flavor**. It’s a **one-pot dinner idea** that’s great for **meal prep** and can be customized to suit your taste!
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Steps
# How to Make Hearty Lentil and Sausage Soup: A Step-by-Step Guide
Looking for a comforting, protein-packed meal? This **hearty lentil and sausage soup** is the perfect dish for chilly nights. Packed with **fiber-rich lentils**, savory sausage, and aromatic vegetables, this soup is both nutritious and delicious. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful soup that will warm your soul.
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## Ingredients for Lentil and Sausage Soup
- 1 cup **dried lentils** (green or brown)
- 12 oz **Italian sausage** (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium **onion**, diced
- 2 **carrots**, peeled and diced
- 2 **celery stalks**, diced
- 3 cloves **garlic**, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) **diced tomatoes**
- 6 cups **chicken or vegetable broth**
- 1 tsp **dried thyme**
- 1 tsp **smoked paprika**
- 2 tbsp **olive oil**
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
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## Step-by-Step Instructions
### 1. Prepare the Ingredients
- Rinse the lentils under cold water and set aside.
- Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small, even pieces.
- Mince the garlic cloves.
### 2. Cook the Sausage
- Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the sausage, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
- Remove the sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
### 3. Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the remaining olive oil to the pot.
- Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
### 4. Add Lentils and Seasonings
- Stir in the rinsed lentils, dried thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken or vegetable broth.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
### 5. Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
### 6. Add the Sausage Back In
- Once the lentils are cooked, return the cooked sausage to the pot.
- Stir well and let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
### 7. Serve and Garnish
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
- Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
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## Tips for the Best Lentil and Sausage Soup
- **Customize the spice level**: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- **Make it vegetarian**: Skip the sausage and use vegetable broth for a meat-free version.
- **Storage**: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months.
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This **hearty lentil and sausage soup** is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and packed with wholesome ingredients. Perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!