Crock Pot Lentil Soup

2 Tbs olive oil
1 med onion diced
1 cup carrots diced
1 cup celery diced
1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
1 pkg dried lentils (rinsed)
3 cups water
3 cups vegetable broth
2 whole Bay Leaves (remove before serving)
1/2 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Italian flavored bread crumbs (optional)
Parmesan Cheese

Place all ingredients (except for bread crumbs and parm cheese) in crock pot and let cook 3-4 hours. Pour into soup bowls, and top with Italian bread crumbs and parm cheese. Serve with Salad and fresh bread.
©2008

Vegetarian Chili

This recipe works great in a crock pot too!

Ingredients:
In a large non stick pan or a crock pot, saute:
2 Tbs olive oil
1 medium onion chopped
1 diced green pepper
2 cloves garlic chopped
1 small can mushrooms (optional)

Add:
2 (19 ounce) cans dark red kidney beans
1 large can crushed tomatoes
1 pkg veggie burger crumbles (we like Morning Star brand, found in the freezer section of the grocery store)
1 small (14oz) can tomato sauce
1 tsp chili powder
1 Tbs sugar
sprinkle of oregano

Instructions:
Simmer altogether over low heat for 30 min. Serve with grated cheddar or parmesian cheese.
Optional: may be served over cooked elbow macaroni if desired.