This thick and hearty soup made with lentils, ham and tomatoes takes only 30 minutes to make. It's a whole meal in one bowl. Soups and casseroles are great family fare, but usually take too long to make for a midweek meal. This quick meal fits the bill.
Helpful Hints:
_ Canned whole tomatoes can be used instead of diced.
_ Diced fresh onions can be found in the produce section of the supermarket.
_ Minced garlic can be found in jars in the produce or condiment sections of the supermarket.
_ Toast can be made in a toaster oven or under the broiler.
Countdown:
_ Start soup.
_ While soup simmers, preheat broiler and make toast.
_ Complete soup.
Shopping List:
To buy: 2 ounces lean ham(ASTERISK), 1 can low-sodium diced tomatoes(ASTERISK)(ASTERISK), 1 package dried lentils, 1 bottle ground cumin, 1 loaf crusty country bread, 1 container fresh diced onion.
Staples: olive oil, minced garlic, garlic, balsamic vinegar, salt, black peppercorns.
