Easy Red Lentil and Tomato Soup

Red lentil and tomato soup is so easy to make. It takes very little time, and it's nutritious and inexpensive. What's not to like?

Aside from the healthy lentils and tomatoes, you will also need some stock. If you have it in the freezer, now is the time to use it, but it's always fine to use a stock cube as a substitute. Use vegetable stock if you want a vegetarian soup; otherwise chicken stock is good.

Ingredients:

• 7 ounces red lentils, washed thoroughly and any grit removed
• 1 1/2 pints stock
• 1 (3/4-pound) can chopped tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, or tarragon leaves
• Dash salt, or to taste
• Dash pepper, or to taste
• Heavy cream, to taste, optional garnish