1 lb Italian sausage
1 large onion, chopped
1 stalk celery, chopped
2 large carrots, chopped
1 small zucchini, chopped
6 cps chicken broth
2 x 14½ oz cans diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
2 c dry lentils, rinsed
¾ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes

½ teaspoon basil

½ teaspoon oregano

1 teaspoon parsley

½ teaspoon thyme

1.    Brown sausage; drain off fat.  In a large pot combine all ingredients; bring to a boil.  Reduce heat, cover.

2.    Simmer for about 1 hour or until lentils are tender.  Add water, if necessary, for desired consistency.

3.    Sprinkle with parmesan cheese, serve.