Pasta & Lentil Soup

Directions

Pour the olive oil into a large soup pot.

Add and sauté the onions, mushrooms, and garlic over low-medium heat for about 2 or 3 minutes.

Stir continually.

Add the water, lentils, and tomato paste.

Stir well and bring the water to a boil over high heat.

Then reduce heat to medium.

Add the bay leaf, ginger, salt, and pepper.

Stir, cover the pot, and cook the soup for 40 minutes.

Remove the bay leaf.

Add the pasta, cover the pot, and simmer slowly for 15 minutes.

Stir again and serve immediately.

Some grated Parmesan may be sprinkled on top of each serving.