Spinach Lentil Soup

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 stalks of celery, chopped
1 can (14-16 oz) diced tomatoes in juice
1 1/2 cup lentils
8 cups water
3 medium carrots chopped
1/2 cup canned spinach or 1/2 cup cooked spinach
1 tsp salt
1-2 tbsp lemon juice
Freshly ground pepper or hot pepper sauce (optional)

This makes 6 servings. Chop the large onion, carrots and celery. Heat the oil in a 5-quart saucepan over medium heat. Add the onions, celery and carrots and cook for 10 minutes, or until softened. Add the tomatoes, lentils, and water. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, partially cover, and cook for 30 minutes. Add the spinach and garlic and cook for 10 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Just before serving add the salt, lemon juice and pepper or pepper sauce to taste. Adjust seasonings to taste.

Number of Servings: 6

Recipe submitted by SparkPeople user LARALANA.