Split Pea and Lentil Soup With Vegetables

I got this recipe from a resturant owner in Napa it has virtually zero fat and tons of flavor. The best part is that it is very easy to make!!

• Ready In: 1 hr 50 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 8  ounces  split peas
• 8  ounces lentils
• 1 1⁄2 cups carrots, cut into bite size pieces
• 2  stalks celery, cut into 1/2 inch slices
• 2  large tomatoes, chopped
• 1  large onion, chopped
• 4  garlic cloves, chopped
• 10  leaves fresh basil, chopped
• 1  tablespoon olive oil
• 2  teaspoons salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon pepper
• 1  teaspoon paprika
• 3  small  red potatoes, cut into half inch cubes
• 1  bunch  Baby Spinach
• 1 (12 ounce) can  V8 vegetable juice

Directions

1. Rinse lentils and split peas well then add to boiling water and simmer until done, about 40 minutes keep checking water before this adding if water goes below beans, drain.
2. Heat olive oil in large pot, saute onions and garlic over medium heat until onions are clear about 5 minutes.
3. Add celery, carrots and 1 cup of water, simmer until al dente.
4. Add 4 cups water and cooked lentils and split peas.
5. Squeeze tomatoes, add juice and friut to pot.
6. Add v8 juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and basil to pot.
7. Bring to a boil reduce heat to simmer. Add potatoes and spinach, simmer until potatoes are done about 30 minutes, stirring at least every 10 minutes.
8. Garnish with parmasean cheese.