Hearty Lentil Soup

Submitted by goddss6

"This is a wonderful soup that is hearty enough to eat as a meal or just a meal starter. It's a great vegetarian dish as well. Even my very picky 3yr old likes this soup!"

 

• Ready In: 50mins
• Ingredients: 10
• Serves: 4-6

ingredients

• 3 -4 carrots, sliced
• 3 stalks celery, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons minced garlic
• 1 cup bacon (optional, I use imitation bacon) (optional) or 1 cup ham (optional, I use imitation bacon) (optional)
• 1 quart chicken broth
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 4 -6 cups water
• 1 1⁄2 cups lentils
• 1⁄2 lb farfalle pasta (bowtie pasta)

directions

1. Heat large pan over med/low heat. Pour in olive oil, garlic & bacon/ham. Cook long enough to heat up garlic and bacon/ham. Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, 3-4c of the water, lentils, carrots & celery. Bring to a boil & simmer for about 30 minute Add farfalle and more water as needed. Cook until farfalle is tender.
2. Ladle into bowls and serve. Top with cheese if desired.