Lemony Lentil and Chard Soup

Serves 12

Ingredients:

3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving

1 large onion, diced

1 bunch chard

4 cloves garlic, finely chopped

1 tablespoon ground cumin

½ teaspoon Aleppo pepper, plus more for serving

8 cups water

1-pound red lentils, picked over and rinsed

1 ½ teaspoons salt

½ cup lemon juice (from 3-4 lemons)

Ground pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden, 8 to 12 minutes.
2. Meanwhile, separate chard greens from stems. Thinly slice the stems; chop the greens.
3. Add garlic, cumin and Aleppo to the pot; cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add water, lentils and the chard stems; bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are falling apart, about 20 minutes. Stir in the chard leaves and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in salt, lemon juice and pepper before serving. Garnish with more oil and Aleppo, if desired.

To make ahead: Refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up the three months.

Nutrition per serving: (3/4 cup): Calories: 183; Fat 5g; Carbohydrates 26g: Protein 11g; Sodium 342mg.

Adapted from: EatingWell.com. https://www.eatingwell.com/recipe/7952365/lemony-lentil-chard-soup/?printview . April 2022. Carolyn Malcoun.