Warm up your kitchen and your soul with a bowl of hearty Lentil Soup with Sausage and Spinach! This delightful American classic combines the earthy flavors of lentils with the savory goodness of sausage and the vibrant freshness of spinach, creating a dish that’s not only comforting but also nutritious. Perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy family dinner, this soup is a one-pot wonder that’s sure to impress. Ready to discover how to whip up this delicious recipe in just 40 minutes? Let’s dive into the details that will have you savoring every spoonful!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils
- 1 lb sausage
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups spinach
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the lentils thoroughly under cold water, removing any small stones or debris. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a wooden spoon, until it's browned and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the browned sausage with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- In the same pot, add chopped onions, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the rinsed lentils. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, partially covered, for about 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
- Return the browned sausage to the pot and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- In the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, add fresh spinach and stir until it wilts completely.
- Remove from heat and let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally garnishing with additional fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil.
Tips
- Choose the Right Lentils: While any lentils can work, green or brown lentils hold their shape better in soups, adding a nice texture.
- Enhance the Flavor: For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme while simmering the soup. Just remember to remove them before serving!
- Customize Your Sausage: Use your favorite type of sausage—Italian, chorizo, or even a spicy sausage can give your soup a unique twist.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to sneak in additional vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Prepare it in advance and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator overnight.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate your dish both visually and in flavor.
- Serve with Bread: Pair your soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal that will satisfy your hunger.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 400kcal
Carbohydrates: 19g
Protein: 27g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 75mg
