Tomato Basil Lentil Soup

As the days get colder I've been eating more soup. There is something comforting about having a warm bowl of yumminess. Tonight I tried a new creation. Over the last week I've done some googling to find lentil soup recipes. I combined ideas from a few and came up with the recipe below. It is extra yummy and health too. I hope you enjoy it like I did!

3/4 c lentils

1 Tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, chopped

1 can (14.5 oz) "no salt added" diced tomatoes

1 can (14 oz) "less sodium" chicken broth

1 c water

2 bay leaves

1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar

salt and pepper to taste

3 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped

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Rinse lentils then cook them in boiling water for 30 minutes. Drain when cooked and set aside. (note: I had to keep adding water during the cooking time)

While the lentils cook, heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a separate pan then add 1 chopped onion and 2 cloves minced garlic. Cook until onions are tender.

Then add tomatoes, chicken broth, water, vinegar, and bay leaves. Sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Simmer for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes remove from heat and remove the bay leaves. Scoop mixture into a blender and mix until smooth.

Pour tomato mixture over cooked lentils. Add fresh basil. Return to heat for about 5 minutes until heated through. Enjoy!