French Lentil and Vegetable Soup

Name: French Lentil and Vegetable Soup
Ingredients: 1 pound French green lentils, picked over and rinsed; Boiling water; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for serving; 3 large onions, chopped; 3 medium garlic cloves, minced; 2 large leeks, white and tender green parts only, chopped; 1 tablespoon kosher salt, plus more for seasoning; 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, plus more for seasoning; 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 8 celery ribs, cut into 1/2-inch dice; 6 medium carrots, cut into 1/2-inch dice; 3 quarts chicken stock or low-sodium broth; 1/4 cup tomato paste; 2 tablespoons dry red wine or red wine vinegar; Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving