leftovers

Funny that my first veggie girl recipe is for leftovers, but that's honestly what we ate tonight. Leftover Intuitive Soup. Humble beginnings for a blog. But dang, it was good. Even better the second day.

I create this soup like I create most of my recipes -- with a dash of this and a handful of that until I get the look / consistency / scent I want. So, put those measuring cups aside and get to know your veggies. Roll with me as I give you approximates and options. Then, be brave and create something yummy!

Intuitive Soup

This is my basic veggie soup recipe and, as the name implies, has a multitude of variations based on what's in the pantry, what sounds good, and what feels right for the day. I'm especially inspired to make this soup on cool, cloudy, stay-at-home weekends. It's good for warming body and soul.

Grab your favorite soup pot and assemble:

1 onion
2 garlic cloves
extra-virgin olive oil
1 tetra-brick box of vegetable broth (I prefer the Pacific brand)
1 cup lentils, rinsed
1 large can fire-roasted organic tomatoes**
1 small can organic chopped tomatoes
2 chopped potatoes (any variety, even sweet!)
2 cups or so of organic frozen mixed veggies
dash of oregano or your spice of choice

Saute the onion and garlic in extra-virgin olive oil until aromatic and golden. (I think that all good recipes start this way.) Dump in the broth, toss in the lentils, and add the tomatoes and potatoes. Bring to a boil. Cover and simmer for around 30 minutes or so until the lentils and potatoes are soft. Add the frozen veggies and seasonings about 10 minutes before you are ready to serve. Or, this can simmer on low for a long while, scenting your home with goodness. Enjoy!

I served this soup tonight with homemade garlic-cheddar biscuits (thank you, Bisquick!) and fresh carrot and cucumber strips.

**A special note on fire-roasted tomatoes is necessary here. I first found these years ago at Wild Oats market. Now, the Muir Glen brand is available at most grocery stores. These tomatoes bring a wonderful, smoky, savory taste to soups that is divine! I encourage you to give them a try.