Note: this piece first appeared as the February 2007 ClarkWellness.net Recipe of the Month.

Serves 1 to 2

This delicious, simple soup is quick to prepare. It’s perfect for a winter weeknight meal!

2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 large cloves garlic, pressed
3 tablespoons chopped shallots
1 carrot, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
1/2 cup green lentils, picked over and rinsed
2 cups water or stock
pinch ground white pepper
1 bay leaf
sea salt to taste
1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Heat oil in a small pot over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté briefly, then add shallots, carrot, and celery. Cook until just beginning to brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. Add rinsed lentils, water or stock, white pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer, covered, for about 30 to 40 minutes or until lentils are tender. Remove bay leaf and season with sea salt to taste. Ladle soup into serving bowl and sprinkle with parsley, if using.