Lentil Soup

Prepare the Lentils:
Place the rinsed lentils in a large pot. Cover them with water and bring to a boil for about 5 minutes. Drain the lentils and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: 
In the same pot, heat the Navarino Icons Extra Virgin Olive Oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery (if using). Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Lentils & Liquid:
Add the drained lentils back to the pot. Pour in the water or vegetable broth, and add the bay leaf. Stir everything together.

Incorporate the Sauce:
Once the liquid comes to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Add the Navarino Icons Tomato sauce with Feta Cheese and stir it into the soup. Allow the soup to simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. You may need to add a bit more water if the soup becomes too thick during cooking.

Season & Serve:
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. For an extra touch, drizzle a little Navarino Icons White Balsamic Vinegar into each bowl for a slightly tangy flavor.