In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium-high heat, crumbling as you cook. When the sausage is almost done, add in the garlic and allow it to cook.
1 pound Italian sausage, 3 cloves garlic
In a large Dutch oven, combine all of the ingredients (including the cooked sausage and garlic) and bring to a boil.
1 onion, 1 rib celery, 2 carrots, 1 zucchini, 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth, 29 ounces diced tomatoes, 2 cups dry brown lentils, 2 teaspoons kosher salt, 2 teaspoons ground black pepper
Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover.
Simmer for about 1 hour, or until the lentils are tender. If the soup is too thick, add water to thin to desired consistency.
Sprinkle with basil, oregano, and Parmesan for garnish if desired.
Fresh basil, Fresh oregano, Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese