Mediterranean Lentil Soup

Ingredients

• 2 1/2 cups lentils (washed and sorted)
• 6 cups water
• 1 large onion
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil (to be split in the recipe)
• 1 bell pepper (color is your choice)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 1/2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/4 cup fresh lime juice

Directions

1. 1

   Combine the lentils and water in a pot over high heat and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer while preparing other ingredients.

2. 2

   Saute the onions in half of the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat for about 4 minutes.

3. 3

   Add the bell pepper and saute for a minute or two longer.

4. 4

   Add the onion mixture to the lentils. Simmer 15 minutes.

5. 5

   Season with salt, pepper, and cumin. Simmer for 15-20 minutes longer.

6. 6

   Stir in the cilantro; remove dish from heat.

7. 7

   Combine the garlic, lime juice and the remaining 1/2 tablespoon olive oil in a food processor or blender and blend well.

8. 8

   Add garlic mixture and lime juice to the lentil mixture. Mix well and serve.