Lentil & Parsnip Soup

Lentil & Parsnip Soup 🧡 This comforting lentil and parsnip soup can be wonderfully supportive during cancer treatment. Lentils provide plant-based protein that helps repair tissues, maintain strength, and support the immune system. Parsnips and lentils are both rich in fiber, nurturing gut health and digestion — vital for resilience and overall well-being during healing. So grateful for the joyful experience of creating this nourishing soup, enjoyed mindfully in the company of my new plant, Freckles — a thoughtful gift from a dear friend. I named her Freckles for her bright, cheerful orange blooms that seem to smile back at me. Flowers have a special way of touching our emotions. Research shows that receiving flowers can spark genuine smiles and immediate feelings of happiness, delight, and gratitude — and their positive effects continue long after they’re given.  

Lentil & Parsnip Soup 

 

Ingredients: 

1 medium onion

2 large carrots, peeled and diced

2 celery stalks, diced 

1 large parsnip, peeled and diced 

4 baby potatoes, diced 

4 cloves garlic, minced 

2 teaspoons smoked paprika 

1 teaspoon dried thyme 

1 teaspoon dried rosemary 

3 to 4 Roma tomatoes, diced

6 ounces brown or green lentils, rinsed 

2 bay leaves 

6 cups vegetable broth

salt and pepper to taste 

Optional: a few handfuls of chopped raw spinach or kale

Directions: 

1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, celery, and parsnip with a splash of water over medium heat until the veggies soften.  Add the garlic and continue to cook for another minute, or until it becomes fragrant.  

2. Stir in the spices: smoked paprika, thyme, rosemary, and cook for another minute. 

3. Stir in the tomatoes, potatoes, lentils, bay leaves, and add the vegetable broth.  Bring to a boil, the lower the heat, cover the pot with a lid, simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.  Simmer until the lentils are cooked to your liking.  

4. Remove from heat, add the spinach or kale if desired.  Let the soup sit for a few minutes to allow the spinach/kale to wilt before serving.