Wellness Wednesday: Nourish Your Soul with Sopa de Lentejas
This Wellness Wednesday, we’re bringing you a comforting, nutritious, and delicious recipe for Sopa de Lentejas (Lentil Soup). This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of a nourishing meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with goodness.
Ingredients:
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks of celery, sliced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- ½ white onion, chopped
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
- 2 sprigs fresh parsley
- 1 russet potato, peeled and chopped
- 3-4 teaspoons Caldo de Pollo Knorr powder or bouillon cubes
- 6 cups of water
Method:
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Add the vegetables: Stir in the carrots and chopped potato. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to brown slightly.
- Combine and season: Pour in 6 cups of water, add the Knorr seasoning or bouillon cubes, and toss in the parsley sprigs. Stir to combine.
- Simmer to perfection: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until all the vegetables and lentils are tender.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the parsley sprigs and serve the soup hot. Pair it with a toasted corn tortilla and half an avocado for a balanced, protein-packed meal. Enjoy!
The Benefits of Lentils
Lentils are a small but mighty superfood that should have a regular spot on your plate. Here are some of the amazing health benefits of incorporating lentils into your diet:
- Rich in Nutrients: Lentils are an excellent source of protein, making them a fantastic choice for vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. They’re also packed with essential vitamins and minerals like iron, folate, and magnesium.
- High in Fiber: With their high fiber content, lentils promote digestive health and help regulate blood sugar levels, making them ideal for individuals managing diabetes.
- Heart-Healthy: Lentils are known to support heart health by lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Energy-Boosting: Their complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy, keeping you feeling full and energized throughout the day.
- Weight Management: Low in fat and calories, yet incredibly satisfying, lentils are a great addition to any weight-loss or weight-maintenance plan.
This Sopa de Lentejas is not only comforting and delicious but also a powerhouse of nutrition. Give it a try this week and let it warm your body and soul!
Happy cooking and happy Wellness Wednesday! 🍲❤️