Recipe: Lentil Soup (like Progresso's)

LENTIL SOUP LIKE PROGRESSO'S
Source: Bree/Downers Grove

Note from source: I've been making this lentil soup for years, family loves it. I think it tastes like Progresso's. I have in the past added diced ham, sliced smoked sausage, etc. to make this a really hearty soup, but it really is a meal on its own.

2 cups lentils, sorted and rinsed
8 cups water
2 slices raw bacon, chopped (optional)*
1 large onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped carrot
1/2 cup chopped celery
1 clove garlic, minced
3 Tbsp fresh chopped parsley
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp oregano
1 (16 oz) can tomatoes and their juice, cup up
2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
1 cup uncooked very small pasta such as ditalini or elbows (optional)
parmesan cheese (to serve)

Place lentils in large soup pot with water, bacon, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, oregano. Cover pan and simmer 1 hour.

Add tomatoes and their juice, and wine vinegar. Simmer 30 minutes longer, adding 1 cup uncooked very small pasta (such as ditalini or elbows) if desired.

Serve with more wine vinegar and parmesan cheese.

*I stopped adding the bacon in the interest of health, can't taste anything missing.