Sweet Potato, Lentil & Kale Soup

Fall is officially here and it's the perfect time for cozy nights cuddled with a fresh, homemade soup! It's the season for sweet potato and kale---what's not to love? This wholesome, fresh vegetarian soup will bring a joy to your tastebuds without the harsh, processed additives. Make it gourmet with a little goat cheese and toast up some delicious garlic bread with olive oil for a tasteful accent---again, what's not to love? So sit by the fire and pop in a movie and enjoy this heart-warming dish. Good for your heart, and your health. Bon appetite!


Ingredients:

2 tbsp. extra virgin olive oil
1 tbsp. minced garlic
1/4 white onion, chopped
1 bunch Trader Joes organic kale, stems removed and chopped (heaping, 1 cup)
2 medium heirloom tomatoes, chopped
1/2 cup dried lentils
4-5 cups vegetable broth
1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cubed
1/3 cup kidney beans
1 medium zucchini, cubed
1/3 cup brown rice medley (I used cooked rice)
1 tbsp. dried/fresh Thyme or your favorite autumn seasoning (oregano, basil, etc.)
1 tsp. paprika
1/2 tsp. garlic powder
goat or parmesan cheese
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

- Using a medium sized pot or saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat adding in the chopped onion for about 5 minutes, until lightly browned.
- add in chopped tomatoes, garlic, thyme, paprika, and garlic powder and cook for about 3-4 minutes.
- next add in dried lentils, brown rice and stir coating the spices. Then, add in the vegetable broth. Simmer on medium-high for about 15 minutes (depending on rice, cook longer if required in directions)
- add in the sweet potatoes, zucchini and simmer for about 10 more minutes (add a cup of water depending if you want a thick or thin consistency)
- once the sweet potatoes are tender, add in the kidney beans and kale. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, until kale is wilted. It's best not to overcook the kale!
- add salt and pepper to taste
- serve warm and top with goat or parmesan cheese (:

**This is my vegetarian version. Feel free to add your favorite meat or sausage to beef up the recipe!