Recipe(tried): April's Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup

Carrabba's Sausage and Lentil Soup is one of my favorites! I have made this many times since first tasting it at the restaurant. Though I have found many variations on the web (I have taken several and "tweeked" them), this one mimics the original flavor best! I hope you like!

April's Italian Sausage and Lentil Soup

1 lb Italian sausage
1 large onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
2 large carrots, chopped
1 small zucchini, chopped
6 cups chicken broth
2 (14 1/2 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups dry lentils, rinsed
Black pepper, red pepper flakes, basil, oregano, parsley, thyme to taste

Brown sausage; drain off fat.

In a large pot combine all ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover. Simmer for about 1 hour or until lentils are tender. Add water, if necessary, for desired consistency.

Sprinkle with parmesan cheese, serve.