Lentil Soup with Garlicky Vinaigrette

Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 370 min
Servings: 6
Yield: 6 servings

Description

A drizzle of balsamic vinaigrette brightens the rich flavors of this slow-cooker lentil soup with fresh thyme.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup diced celery
3/4 cup diced carrots
2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
2 teaspoons kosher salt
3/4 cup tomato sauce
2 cups green or brown lentils
2 cups water
4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 sprig fresh thyme
1 teaspoon balsamic or sherry vinegar
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic or sherry vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

1 Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook onion, celery, carrots, and garlic with salt, stirring occasionally, until limp and browning, about 10 minutes. Transfer vegetables to a slow cooker with tomato sauce, lentils, water, broth, bay leaf, thyme, and vinegar. Cook on Low for 6 hours.
2 For vinaigrette, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and salt.
3 Taste soup for salt, then serve with a drizzle of vinaigrette over each bowl.