Lentil Soup

1 small sweet onion, chopped
1 small package frozen chopped carrots
1/2 c chopped fresh parsley
1 package pre-cooked, vacuum-packed lentils from Trader Joes
2-3 cans low sodium chicken broth
1/2 T Kitchen Bouquet
1/2 t powdered garlic
1/2 t powdered onion
1 t red chili flakes

Saute onion in a little olive oil until it starts to turn brown, then add carrots, parsley, and spices.  The carrots don't have to be thawed.  Pour in the chicken broth, lentils, and Kitchen Bouquet.  Bring to a boil.  Serve.

Options:
Saute some chopped celery before adding the carrot
Chop up some fresh spinach & throw it in your bowl then ladle soup on top
Sprinkle with parmesan cheese
Add cooked meat (ham, bacon, sausage, etc.)

PS....Kitchen Bouquet is a strange substance that I use in all kinds of things but especially brothy soups.  It can add depth of flavor to the most bland of concoctions.  You can get it at any grocery store, comes in a little dark brown bottle with a yellow label.  Ask the clerk.  I make sure I never run out of it.  Ever.
PSS....you can buy chopped onion in the frozen food section but I don't recommend it.  I'm good with some other vegetables frozen, but I think an onion should be chopped fresh.  Always.

Serve with:
Cornbread -- buy a pkg of Bob's Red Mill cornbread mix.  Fool proof.  Not the best on the planet but I like it well enough when I'm in a pinch.