Warm lentil soup with garlic and olive oil is Italian vegetarian comfort at its purest. This mediterranean dish is high in protein and fiber, a fresh, healthy family dinner for a calorie deficit.
Rinse the lentils thoroughly and drain. Finely dice the onion, carrot, and celery; chop the tomatoes.
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for 8 minutes until softened but not browned.
Add minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf; sauté gently for 1 minute to release aroma, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to break down.
Add the lentils and vegetable broth, increase heat to high until boiling, then immediately reduce to a low simmer. Cover and cook for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lentils are tender but not mushy.
Season with salt and pepper during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove the bay leaf before serving.