### Hearty Lentil and Butternut Squash Soup Recipe for a Cozy Fall Dinner

#### IntroductionAs the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and warmth to your dinner tab……

#### Introduction

As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and warmth to your dinner table. This **lentil and butternut squash soup recipe** is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it the perfect choice for a cozy fall dinner.

#### Ingredients

To make this hearty soup, you will need the following ingredients:

- 1 cup of lentils (green or brown)

- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and cubed

- 1 large onion, diced

- 2 cloves of garlic, minced

- 3 carrots, diced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

- 6 cups of vegetable broth

- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon of ground coriander

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Olive oil for sautéing

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

#### Instructions

1. **Prepare the Ingredients**: Start by prepping all your vegetables. Peel and cube the butternut squash, dice the onion, carrots, and celery, and mince the garlic.

2. **Sauté the Vegetables**: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

3. **Add the Spices**: Sprinkle in the ground cumin and coriander. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices, allowing them to bloom and release their flavors.

4. **Combine the Lentils and Squash**: Add the cubed butternut squash and rinsed lentils to the pot. Stir everything together to combine.

5. **Pour in the Broth**: Carefully add the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils and squash are tender.

6. **Blend the Soup (Optional)**: For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup. You can blend it to your desired consistency, whether you prefer it chunky or smooth.

7. **Season to Taste**: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or a splash of hot sauce.

8. **Serve**: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve it warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

#### Health Benefits

This **lentil and butternut squash soup recipe** is not just comforting; it’s also incredibly healthy. Lentils are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, while butternut squash is rich in vitamins A and C, potassium, and antioxidants. Together, they create a nourishing dish that can support your immune system and overall health.

#### Conclusion

Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress your guests, this **lentil and butternut squash soup recipe** is sure to become a favorite. Its rich flavors, combined with the health benefits of the ingredients, make it a perfect addition to your fall menu. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this soup as you gather around the table with family and friends.

### Final Tips

Feel free to customize this soup by adding other vegetables like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost. You can also experiment with different spices to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure with this delightful recipe!