Italian Lentil Soup by Peas and Crayons

– 1 medium onion
– 3 carrots
– 1-2 celery ribs
– 3-4 cloves garlic
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1.5 cups dry green or brown lentils
– 14.5 oz canned diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp Italian seasoning blend
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp dried thyme
– 1/8 tsp dried or fresh rosemary
– 15 oz canned cannelini beans (drained and rinsed)
– 2 cups fresh chopped spinach
– optional fresh parsley (to garnish)
– optional freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for topping)

Prep Time: 15 min
Cook Time: 35 min
Total Time: 50 min