Comfort Food Made Easy: 3 Slow-Cooked Soups
Cozy Up with Apres-Ski-Style Lentil-Sausage Soup
Dreaming of snowy slopes and fireside chats? Bring the warmth of an après-ski retreat to your kitchen with this incredibly easy and flavorful Lentil-Sausage Soup! This isn’t just a soup; it’s a hug in a bowl – perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or when you simply need a comforting and satisfying meal.
This recipe is designed for simplicity. We’re talking minimal prep and maximum flavor, thanks to the slow cooker doing most of the work. The combination of hearty lentils, savory sausage, and rustic vegetables creates a wonderfully textured and aromatic soup that will fill your home with delicious smells. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying.
What makes this soup special?
- Slow Cooker Convenience: Set it and forget it! The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully over hours, resulting in a richer, more complex taste.
- Hearty and Filling: Lentils and sausage provide a substantial base, keeping you full and energized.
- Rustic Italian Flavors: Oregano and sweet paprika add a touch of Italian warmth and depth.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to add other vegetables like celery or spinach to boost the nutritional value and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this Lentil-Sausage Soup with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s also fantastic for meal prepping – leftovers taste even better the next day!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of sausage?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different Italian sausages – sweet, hot, or even a combination. Chicken or turkey sausage would also work well for a lighter option.
Q: Can I make this soup on the stovetop?
A: Yes, you can! Brown the sausage first, then add the remaining ingredients and simmer for about 45-60 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
Q: Can I add any other vegetables?
A: Definitely! Celery, spinach, kale, or diced zucchini would all be delicious additions.
Q: Is this soup gluten-free?
A: It can be! Ensure your sausage is gluten-free. Lentils and the other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes! Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Apres-Ski-Style Lentil-Sausage Soup
Ingredients
- 6-8 Italian spiced sausages hot or mild
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2/3 cup lentils
- 2 potatoes washed and diced
- 1 medium onion diced
- 1 small bag mini-carrots or 4-5 regular carrots cut into 1/2 inch chunks
- 2 tablespoons oregano
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
Instructions
- Layer potatoes, onions, carrots, lentils, broth, tomatoes, and sausage in a slow cooker.
- Add oregano and paprika.
- Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours.
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