LENTILS a la ITALIANA

By BobD

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup chopped onion
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp. olive oil
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 3/4 cup dried lentils, washed
• 1 16 oz. can diced tomatoes with juice
• 1/4-1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1 tbsp. chopped fresh basil, or 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tbsp. chopped fresh oregano or 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/4 tsp. freshly ground pepper

Preparation

Step 1

In a heavy saucepan, sauté the onion and garlic in the olive oil for 5 minutes, until the onion is tender.

Add the broth and lentils. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes.

Add the tomatoes with their liquid, 1/2-cup water, and the remaining ingredients; simmer over low heat, uncovered, for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Add water if the mixture becomes too dry.