1. 1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-5 minutes.

2. 2. Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to your crockpot. Add the rinsed lentils, diced carrots, diced celery, diced tomatoes, cumin, bay leaves, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper.

3. 3. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir everything together until well combined.

4. 4. Cover the crockpot and cook the soup on low heat for 6-8 hours, or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the lentils are tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. 5. About 10 minutes before serving, stir in the chopped spinach or kale, allowing it to wilt and incorporate into the soup.

6. 6. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if desired.

7. 7. Ladle the Tasty Crockpot Lentil Soup into bowls and garnish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro, if you’d like.