Lentil Soup with Whole Wheat Bread and Mixed Salad

Ingredients

• Dry lentils 1/2 cup
• Carrots 1/3 cup
• Celery 1/3 cup
• Onion 1/3 cup
• Water or vegetable broth 3 cups
• Olive oil 1 tablespoon
• Whole wheat bread 1 slice
• Mixed salad greens 1 cup
• Salt to taste
• Black pepper to taste
• Lemon juice or vinegar 1 teaspoon
• Optional: garlic 1 clove

Method

1. Prepare the lentils. Rinse 1/2 cup dry lentils under cold water to remove any dust or debris. Drain well.
   Tip: Rinsing lentils helps remove impurities and improves taste.
2. Cook the lentils. In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed lentils with 2 1/2 cups water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender but not mushy. Add more water if needed during cooking.
   Tip: Simmer gently to avoid breaking lentils apart.
3. Prepare the vegetables. While lentils cook, chop carrots, celery, and onion finely to make about 1 cup mixed vegetables. Mince garlic if using.
   Tip: Chopping vegetables uniformly helps them cook evenly.
4. Sauté the vegetables. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until vegetables are softened and fragrant.
   Tip: Sautéing vegetables first enhances their flavor in the soup.
5. Combine lentils and vegetables. Once lentils are tender, drain any excess liquid if necessary. Add the sautéed vegetables into the lentils. Stir to combine and warm together for 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
   Tip: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
6. Prepare the salad. Place 1 cup mixed salad greens in a bowl. Drizzle with 1 teaspoon lemon juice or vinegar and a small drizzle of olive oil if desired. Toss gently to coat.
   Tip: Dress salad just before serving to keep greens crisp.
7. Toast the bread. Toast 1 slice of whole wheat bread until golden and crisp. Serve alongside the soup and salad.
   Tip: Toasting enhances flavor and texture.
8. Serve the meal. Ladle the lentil soup into a bowl, place the toasted bread on a plate, and serve with the mixed salad on the side. Enjoy your balanced and nutritious meal!
   Tip: Pairing warm soup with fresh salad and bread creates a satisfying meal.

Pro tips

• Use vegetable broth instead of water for richer soup flavor.
• Add herbs like thyme or bay leaf during lentil cooking for extra aroma.