Delicious Lentil and Kale Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 oz low-sodium bacon , (about 4 slices)
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 1/2 cup chopped carrot , (about 1 carrot)
• 1/2 cup chopped celery , (about 2 sticks)
• 1 tbsp chopped garlic
• 1 tsp hot smoked paprika
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 1/2 cups green lentils
• 8 cups chicken broth , (homemade or sodium-free)
• 1 tbsp chopped thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chopped kale , (stems and mid-ribs removed)
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley