Sausage and Lentil Soup

Instructions

1. 1

   Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.

2. 2

   Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks.

3. 3

   Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery to the pot and cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

4. 4

   Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

5. 5

   Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken broth, then add the lentils and dried thyme.

6. 6

   Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. 7

   Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

8. 8

   Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

9. 9

   Serve hot, with crusty bread if desired.