Italian Lentil and Vegetable Soup

this vegetarian recipe has a rich flavor and is easy and inexpensive to make.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 2  carrots, chopped
• 3  stalks celery, chopped
• 1  medium onion, chopped
• 3  garlic cloves, minced
• 2  tablespoons olive oil
• 2  cups vegetable broth
• 2  cups water
• 1 1⁄2 cups tomato juice
• 1⁄4 cup white wine
• 1⁄2 teaspoon thyme
• 1⁄4 teaspoon marjoram
• 1  cup lentils, rinsed and picked over
• 2  medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1  small potato, peeled and cubed
• 1⁄3 cup quick-cooking barley
• 1  tablespoon lemon juice
•  salt and pepper

Directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot.
2. Saute carrots, celery, onion, and garlic for 5 minutes or until they begin to soften.
3. Add broth, water, tomato juice, wine, thyme, marjoram, and lentils.
4. Bring to a boil and simmer 10 minutes.
5. Add tomatoes and potato and simmer 10 minutes.
6. Add barley and simmer 10 minutes.
7. Add lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and serve. I usually top with Parmesan cheese.