Lentil and Sausage Soup with Kale
Try this Lentil and Sausage Soup with Kale recipe.
Try this Lentil and Sausage Soup with Kale recipe.
- 2 sprigs thyme
- salt
- 3/4 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped carrots
- 3 cloves garlic chopped
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 1 sprig rosemary
- 1 1/2 cups chopped kale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil plus more for browning the sausages
- 1 tablespoon bacon fat (or add another tablespoon of olive oil)
- 1 1/2 cups french green lentils rinsed
- 28 ounces canned chopped tomatoes (i use tetra-pack)
- 4 chicken sausages (or substitute another kind of sausage)
- Carbohydrate 32.2477253497412 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.620406324307968 g
- Fiber 15.614457332889 g
- Protein 12.8670221092527 g
- Saturated Fat 0.101348442192377 g
- Serving Size 1 1 Serving (219g)
- Sodium 29.4377029628543 mg
- Sugar 16.6332680168521 g
- Trans Fat 0.121886709941921 g
- Calories 185 calories
Step-by-step
- Heat the olive oil and bacon fat over medium heat in a large, heavy pot and add the carrots, celery, onion and garlic.
- Add a big pinch of salt. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the lentils, tomatoes and 4 cups water.
- Add the thyme and rosemary and a couple more pinches of salt.
- Bring to a boil and then lower the heat to a simmer.
- Cook until the lentils are tender, 15 to 20 minutes, adding more water if necessary to cover the vegetables.
- Meanwhile brown the sausages in about a teaspoon of olive oil in a small pan and then slice them into quarter moons.
- When the lentils are just tender, taste the soup and add more salt if necessary.
- Add the kale and cook for about 3 minutes, until the kale is tender but still green.
- Stir in the sausage, make sure everything is heated through, and serve.
A Hearty and Healthy Lentil and Sausage Soup: My Weeknight Staple
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like a Herculean task. Weeknights are a whirlwind of school pick-ups, homework battles, and the general chaos that comes with managing a family. But I've learned that a little planning and some simple, flavorful recipes can make all the difference. This Lentil and Sausage Soup with Kale has become a lifesaver, a warm hug on a chilly evening, and a testament to the fact that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. It comes together quickly, using readily available ingredients that I usually have on hand. The lentils provide a hearty base, packed with protein and fiber, keeping everyone feeling full and satisfied. The kale adds a boost of vitamins and nutrients, while the sausages bring a savory depth of flavor that my family loves. And let’s not forget the comforting aroma that fills the kitchen as it simmers – pure culinary magic!
I often adapt this recipe to what I have in my pantry and fridge. Sometimes I swap out the chicken sausages for Italian sausage, or even vegetarian sausages for a meatless version. The kale can be substituted with spinach or other hearty greens. Feeling adventurous? Add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice at the end for an extra layer of complexity. The possibilities are endless! This soup is incredibly versatile and adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Beyond its deliciousness and convenience, this soup is also incredibly budget-friendly. Lentils are a remarkably inexpensive source of protein, and the other ingredients are readily accessible at most grocery stores. Making a big batch on the weekend means I have quick and easy lunches for the week, saving me time and money in the long run. It's a win-win-win situation!
This recipe is more than just a meal; it's a symbol of my commitment to providing my family with wholesome, delicious food without sacrificing precious time. It's a reminder that even in the midst of a busy life, we can prioritize nourishing ourselves and our loved ones. It’s a warm bowl of goodness that embodies the heart of home-cooked meals.
I encourage you to try this recipe. Adjust it to your liking, experiment with different ingredients, and discover the joy of creating a flavorful and healthy meal that your family will love. It's more than just soup; it's a taste of comfort, ease, and deliciousness, perfectly suited for busy weeknights. And remember, the best meals are often the simplest ones, filled with love and the good things in life.
So, go ahead and make a batch of this amazing Lentil and Sausage Soup with Kale. You won't be disappointed. Enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Add some greens: Throw in a handful of chopped fresh parsley or chives at the end for extra freshness.
Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving for a creamier texture.
Boost the flavor: A bay leaf added during the simmering process adds depth of flavor.
Meal prepping made easy: This soup is perfect for meal prepping. Make a large batch on the weekend and store it in the fridge for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Freezing for later: This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread for dipping, a simple green salad, or a dollop of plain yogurt for extra creaminess. It pairs well with many different sides, making it a perfect centerpiece for a simple weeknight dinner or a more elaborate gathering.
