Speedy, Spicy Lentil Soup

What I would give to have this right now... Serve with whole wheat dinner rolls.

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 1  medium onion, chopped
• 1  carrot, chopped
• 1  red bell pepper, chopped
• 5  garlic cloves, sliced
• 5  cups water
• 1  cup dried lentils
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 2  bay leaves
• 2  tablespoons  balsamic vinegar
•  salt and pepper, to taste

Directions

1. Heat oil in large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion; cook 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Stir in carrot, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook 3 minutes.
4. Stir in remaining ingredients except salt and pepper. Bring to boil over high heat.
5. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, 25 to 30 minutes or until lentils and veggies are tender.
6. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
7. Remove bay leaves.
8. Serve with rolls.