Ingredients and Weight: - 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 medium yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup) - 2 large carrots, chopped (about 2 cups) - 2 ribs celery, chopped (about 1 cup) - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes - 1 large bunch kale, stems removed and leaves roughly chopped (about 6 cups) - 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, rinsed and drained - 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth - 1 cup water - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Difficulty Level:** 1 (Easy)
Preparation Method Steps: 1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. 2. Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Stir to coat with the oil and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. 3. Stir in the oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. 4. Add the kale and stir until it begins to wilt. 5. Stir in the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the beans are tender. 6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. 7. Serve the soup hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese (optional).
Nutritional Information (per serving): - Calories: 250 - Fat: 10g (saturated fat: 2g) - Cholesterol: 0mg - Sodium: 720mg - Carbohydrates: 40g (fiber: 10g) - Protein: 15g
Dish Characteristics: - Rich and flavorful - Hearty and comforting - Healthy and nutritious - Perfect for a cold winter day
User Comments: - "This soup is so delicious and easy to make! I love the combination of flavors." - "This soup is a great way to get your daily dose of vegetables." - "I always make a big pot of this soup and freeze the leftovers for quick and easy meals."
Special Precautions and Tips: - If you don't have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth instead. - For a creamier soup, you can use a blender to puree some of the soup before serving. - To make the soup even more flavorful, you can add cooked sausage or bacon.