Make a Fast and Flavorful Red Lentil Soup // Perfect for Winter 

This heartwarming recipe is easy to make and packs a lot of healthy ingredients to keep you away from colds and your belly nice and warm. ;)
RECIPE:
Clean and soak:
1 1/3 C red lentils in plenty of water while preparing below. Then wash them and strain them to add to the pot.
Saute on medium high heat, till starting to turn golden:
2 T light olive oil
1 C diced onion
Add while stirring:
1 t fresh shredded ginger (optional)
4 cloves minced garlic
half a serrano pepper shredded
2 t salt
After a minute of stirring add these herbs while stirring:
2 bay leaf
1 t cumin powder
1 t turmeric powder
Add these ingredients and stir continuously:
2 C chopped fresh tomato or 2 T tomato paste
1/2 C sliced carrot or 2 med carrots
1 C diced celery
soaked, washed lentils
Stir about a minute then add:
7 C hot water
Bring to boil. Simmer 25 minutes till the lentils fall apart. Taste for salt.
Before serving add chopped cilantro or parsley, lemon wedges to garnish.
Enjoy! :)