Mediterranean Lentil Soup with Whole Grain Crackers + Mixed Greens Salad
A heart-healthy recipe designed to support a diet aimed at lowering high cholesterol, featuring Mediterranean-inspired flavors and ingredients rich in soluble fiber, plant-based proteins, and healthy fats.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried lentils, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Whole grain crackers
Instructions
In a large pot, combine lentils, vegetable broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, cumin, paprika, turmeric, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender.
While the soup is cooking, prepare the mixed greens salad by tossing mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
Serve the lentil soup hot with a side of whole grain crackers and mixed greens salad.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein (g) | 15 |
| Carbs (g) | 45 |
| Fiber (g) | 12 |
| Sugar (g) | 5 |
| Saturated fat (g) | 1 |
| Trans fat (g) | 0 |
| Sodium (mg) | 600 |
| Cholesterol | 0 |