Bob Harper's lentil soup must try

Bob Harper's Savory Lentil Soup

Note: If you prep the chopped veggies ahead of time, this is a super quick meal to make!

1/4 c dried lentils
olive oil spray
1/4 c chopped carrot
2 tablespoons chopped celery
2 tablespoons chopped onion
1 garlic clove, minced
1 bay leaf
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tablespoon tomato paste
1/2 c cubed peeled sweet potato
1 and 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
dash of salt and freshly ground pepper
(optional) 1/2 tablespoon parsley,1/2 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese

Directions:
1. Rinse and drain lentils, set aside. Coat medium pot with olive oil spray.
2. Add carrot, onion, celery, garlic to pot and saute for 5 minutes.
3. Add bay leaf, thyme, tomato paste and stir for 1 minute.
4. Add lentils and sweet potato, stir 1 minute.
5. Add broth and bring to boil; reduce the heat and cover and simmer 15 to 20 minutes or until veggies and lentils are tender. Stir occasionally.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with sprinkling of parsley and parmesan (also good without).