Ingredients:

  Amount  Measure       Ingredient -- Preparation Method
--------  ------------  --------------------------------
16        oz. pkg.      dry lentils
1         lb.           sweet Italian sausage
1         large         yellow onion, chopped
2                       garlic cloves, minced 
3                       celery stalks, chopped 
1         lb.           carrots, sliced into small pieces 
6         cups          chicken broth (or water with enough bouillon cubes to season to taste)
                        Salt, pepper, oregano, thyme and basil to taste 
                        Freshly grated parmesan cheese to garnish

Preparation:

Rinse lentils according to package instructions. Brown sausage in a large soup pot and drain well. Add onion, garlic and celery. Cook until onion is tender. Add all other ingredients, except cheese. Cook until lentils are tender, approximately 30 to 40 minutes. Sprinkle with cheese before serving. Great with bread and salad.