🥣 Mediterranean Lentil Soup (Greek Fakes Soupa)

🥣 Ingredients (Serves 3–4)

🌾 Base Ingredients:

• 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 large carrot, diced

• 1 stalk celery, chopped

• 2 medium tomatoes, diced (or 1 cup crushed tomatoes)

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 4 cups water or vegetable broth

🍋 Optional Toppings:

• Drizzle of olive oil

• Squeeze of lemon juice

• Crumbled feta or parsley for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.

2. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes until softened.

3. Add garlic and tomato paste, sauté another minute for aroma.

Step 2: Add Lentils & Simmer

1. Add lentils, diced tomatoes, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

2. Pour in the broth or water.

3. Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

4. Simmer uncovered for 30–35 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are soft.

Step 3: Adjust & Finish

1. Taste and adjust seasoning — add more salt, pepper, or lemon if needed.

2. For a creamier texture, mash a small portion of the lentils with a spoon and stir them back in.

3. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Step 4: Serve

1. Ladle soup into bowls.

2. Drizzle with olive oil, add a squeeze of lemon juice, and top with parsley or feta.

3. Serve with whole-grain bread or pita for a full Mediterranean meal.

💚 Health & Nutrition Benefits

✅ Healthy Tips

1. 🍋 Always add lemon juice at the end — it brightens flavor and enhances nutrition.

2. 🫒 Drizzle extra virgin olive oil on top right before serving for extra richness.

3. 🌿 Meal-prep friendly — lasts up to 4 days in the fridge or can be frozen.

4. 🥗 Serve with a side of Greek salad or grilled bread for a balanced meal.