Hearty Red Lentil Vegetable Soup with Spiced Croutons

Introduction
This hearty red lentil vegetable soup is a wholesome and flavorful dish perfect for any season. Packed with nutritious vegetables, warming spices, and protein-rich lentils, it offers comfort and nourishment in every bowl. The addition of crunchy spiced croutons adds a delightful texture contrast, making this soup a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

200 g red lentils, rinsed and soaked for 10 minutes

1 medium onion, diced

2 tbsp olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, peeled and diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 tsp ground turmeric

1 tsp spice blend (e.g., cumin, coriander, smoked paprika)

1.2 L vegetable broth or water

75 g fresh spinach, roughly chopped

Juice of ½ lemon

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Pinch of chili pepper flakes (optional)

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or cilantro

For the Spiced Croutons:

3 cups bread cubes (day-old bread works best)

2 tbsp olive oil

1 tsp smoked paprika

½ tsp garlic powder

Salt, to taste

How to make: