This thick and hearty soup made with ham, lentils and tomatoes takes only 30 minutes to make and is a great way to brighten a winter evening. It's a whole meal in one bowl.

You can improvise when you haven't been to the supermarket. For example, if you don't have basil, use any fresh greens you have in the refrigerator. Canned whole tomatoes can be used instead of diced. Break them up with the side of a spoon as they go into the saucepan.

To go alongside, brush slices of hearty whole-grain bread with olive oil and rub with the cut side of a halved clove of garlic. Cook in a toaster oven or under the broiler until browned.