Easy Greek Red Lentil Soup

 

Extra virgin olive oil 

1 large onion, chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 carrots, chopped

3 tsp dry oregano

1 1/2 tsp cumin

1 tsp rosemary

1/2 tsp red pepper flakes

2 dry bay leaves

1 cup crushed tomatoes (from a can)

7 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

2 cups red lentils, rinsed and drained

Kosher salt

Zest of 1 lemon

Juice of 2 lemons

Fresh parsley for garnish

Crumbled feta cheese to serve, optional

1. Heat 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil until shimmering but not smoking. Add onions, carrots and garlic. Cook 3  to 4 minutes, stirring regularly. Add spices and bay leaves. Cook for a few seconds till fragrant, keep stirring so spices don’t burn.
2. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, lentils. Season with kosher salt. Bring to a boil, then lower heat to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, until lentils are fully cooked.
3. Remove from heat. If you have the time, let soup cool a bit before using an immersion blender to puree. Pulse a few times till you reach the creamy consitency you are looking for.
4. Return soup to heat, and stir to warm through. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and fresh parsley.
5. Transfer soup to serving bowls and top with extra virgin olive oil. If you like, top each bowl with a generous sprinkle of feta cheese. Serve with your favorite crusty bread!